November: Standing With Our Veterans at Liberty House

November’s We Love Local: Standing With Our Veterans at Liberty House

This November’s We Love Local was especially meaningful for the GSMS team. For our Second Annual Stuff a Furnace Food Drive, we put a new twist on the tradition by collecting and donating directly to the pantry at Liberty House — an extraordinary organization that supports New Hampshire veterans in need. Liberty House provides substance-free transitional housing, vital community connections, and a 4-step program designed to help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity, stability, and hope.

When Zak and Gina visited, we were warmly greeted by Stephanie and Ezra — Liberty House’s emotional support dog for veterans. Stephanie gave us a heartfelt tour of the facility, sharing the realities of what their residents and community veterans face, and truly… there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. Hearing her speak so passionately about their mission brought everything into perspective.

One thing that stood out most was learning how critical community support is. Liberty House receives no state or federal funding and relies entirely on donations to keep its programs running. Stephanie shared that during the summer — which they refer to as their “hurt months” — their pantry often runs dangerously low on essential items. That insight made our visit even more meaningful. We hope people will continue to donate generously during those difficult months to help ensure veterans always have access to the food and support they need.

Liberty House operates with an inspiring level of care and intention. Their pantry provides food, clothing, toiletries, and essentials to any veteran in need, no questions asked. Supporting them this November felt not just right — but necessary.

And of course, we couldn’t leave without saying hello to Ezra — Liberty House’s sweet emotional support dog. He greeted us with his favorite toy and the kind of tail-wagging joy that instantly lifts the whole room. Ezra brings comfort and companionship to the veterans he supports, and meeting him was truly a highlight of our visit.