A local business owner is asking the community for donations to help the family of a late soldier.
Papa Pineapples, which is owned and operated by Scott Snyder, had planned to host a virtual 5K to benefit Veterans dealing with PTSD and suicide. The event became a benefit after Snyder heard news of the passing of his friend recently.
“One of my previous soldiers and military brothers lost his fight with internal demons. Evan Rhoden was a good soldier and an even better person,” said a Facebook post on the company’s page.
Snyder says all of the proceeds will go to the wife and four children of Rhoden.
“If you, or anyone you know, fights with these demons I implore you to reach out to someone, anyone,” said Snyder in the post.
The event will see participants receive a medal and complete a 5k run, walk, or beer crawl in honor of their specific honoree.
According to the National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, more than 6,000 veterans committed suicide each year from 2008 to 2017.
“There are 22 vets a day that are taking their own life, and this is a small way to raise awareness for that issue,” said Synder.
The Veterans Crisis Hotline telephone number is 1-800-273-8255
To participate and purchase an entry to the virtual race, visit the website.
Snyder is encouraging all those that participate to share photos and tag Papa Pineapples in the posts on social media.