WOONSOCKET, R.I. – CVS Health and the Boston Red Sox saluted veterans just days before Independence Day, partnering on bringing veterans from across New England to Fenway Park to participate in the annual CVS Health Baseball Camp.
This event marks the sixth year that CVS Health and the Boston Red Sox have teamed up to host veterans for a CVS Health Baseball Camp.
“It is an honor to host this event each year for our nation’s heroes,” stated Eileen Howard Boone, SVP corporate social responsibility and philanthropy, CVS Health. “We are thrilled to offer this experience at America’s favorite ballpark as a small gesture of thanks for their commitment to serving our country.”
“We truly appreciate the wonderful opportunity and day of fun that CVS Health and the Boston Red Sox have provided to NECHV residents," commented Andrew McCawley, president and CEO of the New England Center and Home for Veterans. "The ‘Dream Day’ would be an unforgettable experience and opportunity of a lifetime for any New England sports fan. For our participating veterans, it helps recognize and say thank you for their service and sacrifices; and more broadly, it honors the service of all veterans in this country.”
Through the CVS Health Baseball Camp, veterans received batting tips from Boston Red Sox hitting coach Chili Davis and assistant hitting coach Victor Rodriguez, took a few swings at the Green Monster and enjoyed lunch in the Red Sox dugout. Participants were also provided exclusive access to the historic ballpark during a VIP tour and received tickets to the evening’s game against the Los Angeles Angels, courtesy of CVS Health, in the CVS Pharmacy family seating section.
The camp was hosted by CVS Health as an extension of the company’s commitment to the nation’s military heroes. Veterans who participated in the CVS Health Baseball Camp are from the New England Center and Home for Veterans – a private, not-for-profit organization dedicated to ending homelessness for the nation’s veterans, and the 1st Lieutenant Derek Hines Soldiers Assistance Fund – a fund that provides financial assistance for Massachusetts soldiers and families who have incurred career-ending and life-altering injuries while on active duty.
Over the years, CVS Health has provided charitable support to a range of veteran- focused initiatives. The company has supported military and veteran-focused organizations, including the National Guard, Fisher House, Operation Military Embrace, Operation Homefront and the USO.
The company has also established a colleague resource group for veterans – called Valor – within CVS Health, and has hosted a series of football skills camps and golf clinics for veterans.