#USA #New York #Carry the Round #everyday coffee #Veteran suicide

The Groundbreaking Initiative to Prevent Veteran Gun Suicides

In a novel approach to address the pressing issue of veteran suicides, the organization Worried About a Veteran (WAV) has unveiled the 'Carry the Round' kit. This creative concept merges two unexpected elements: coffee and a firearm storage solution. Designed with the dual purpose of promoting secure firearm storage and sparking meaningful discussions among veterans and their loved ones, this initiative represents a collaborative effort with Aerial Resupply Coffee and StopBox USA.

A Unique Product Launch

Launched on December 12, 2024, the 'Carry the Round' kit is touted as a first-of-its-kind product. Each limited-edition kit features premium Columbian coffee packaged within a specially designed StopBox PRO, a firearm storage unit that offers both security and accessibility. Priced at $99, only 1,000 kits have been made available for purchase through Aerial Resupply Coffee’s website. As Mike Klemmer, a combat veteran and the founder of Aerial Resupply Coffee, stated, "I want to put an end to Veteran suicide. This can't happen anymore," reflecting the urgency and intent behind this initiative.

Why Coffee?

The concept behind using coffee as a medium for dialogue stems from the idea that sharing a cup can create a relaxed environment, fostering open conversations about difficult topics such as mental health and firearms safety. Kristen Vescera, a spokesperson for WAV and a veteran herself, emphasized the importance of creating a supportive atmosphere. She remarked, "Why not have a lifesaving conversation over a cup of coffee?" The blend of casual interaction and serious subject matter aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding discussions of mental health among veterans.

Addressing a Critical Issue

Statistics reveal a strong correlation between firearm access and veteran suicides. Research indicates that approximately 75% of veteran suicides are conducted with firearms, and nearly one-third of veteran gun owners prefer to store at least one firearm both loaded and unlocked. This alarming trend signifies the necessity for change. By encouraging brief moments of reflection through conversations and promoting secure storage, WAV seeks to create a paradigm shift in how veterans and their families engage with this delicate topic.

The innovative StopBox PRO included in the kit is engineered for reliability and ease of use, boasting a tactical, battery-free design featuring 81 possible combinations to ensure rapid access while preventing unauthorized use. As Dylan Ervin, founder of StopBox USA, pointed out, this issue extends beyond mere firearm storage. He believes it to be a family concern, advocating for community support in navigating these challenges.

The Bigger Picture

The 'Carry the Round' campaign designed to accompany this product launch emphasizes the importance of dialogue. Advocates are encouraged to carry the round of coffee—both literally and figuratively—signifying a commitment to engaging in meaningful conversations with veterans and helping secure firearms when necessary. In essence, the campaign serves to remind all of us that discussing our challenges is a crucial step in mitigating risks.

WAV has expanded its reach significantly in 2024, with the backing of organizations such as the Bronx Veterans Medical Research Foundation and the social impact initiative by USAA, called Face the Fight. This expansion aims to equip families and loved ones of veterans with the tools and resources they need to navigate these challenging conversations.

About the Partners

Worried About a Veteran (WAV): This national initiative is dedicated to empowering families and communities to prevent veteran gun suicide. The organization offers a variety of resources tailored for this mission.

Aerial Resupply Coffee: Founded by Mike Klemmer, a 20-year Army veteran, Aerial Resupply Coffee focuses on delivering high-quality, ethically sourced coffee to military personnel and their families, enriching their daily lives while also addressing broader community issues.

StopBox USA: A family-owned company based in Spokane, Washington, StopBox USA is committed to enhancing gun security through innovative designs. Their products have resonated with over 350,000 customers, underlining the importance of safety in firearm storage.

Conclusion

The 'Carry the Round' kit isn't just a product; it's a catalyst for change. By intertwining the comforting ritual of coffee drinking with urgent discussions on suicide prevention, WAV, Aerial Resupply Coffee, and StopBox USA are pioneering a movement that strives to save lives, one conversation at a time.