"Home Away from Home" Adopt a Soldier program has been in existence in the Fort Riley area. Started by Big Red One veteran, Phyllis Fitzgerald, it has connected more than 180 Soldiers with more than 70 local host families.
Fitzgerald said the program offers select community leaders and members an opportunity to provide Soldiers a home-away-from-from and encourages community members an opportunity to meet the Soldiers.
In the program the Soldiers and families share meals together and attend local events together.
The program is still active. If you are interested in becoming a local host family or if a Soldier wants to join you can reach Fitzgerald at 785-307-1472. You can also visit the Home Away from Home Facebook page.