ORLANDO, Fla. — For thousands of veterans returning home, transitioning into civilian life often brings unexpected financial challenges.
After years of wearing military uniforms, many lack the clothing and everyday items needed to navigate life outside of service. A local nonprofit is stepping in to help—one brand-new shirt, pair of shoes, or warm jacket at a time.
What You Need To Know
U.S. Navy veteran leads nonprofit providing free new clothing to veterans transitioning into civilian life
Volunteers, many with military family ties, help distribute essential items at the Orlando VA
Effort aims to give veterans comfort, dignity, and a renewed sense of appreciation
At the Orlando VA Medical Center, volunteers from Dinontas, a faith-based nonprofit, spend their day giving away new clothing exclusively to veterans, free of charge. Among them is Nikki Nix, whose commitment to service is deeply personal — her father retired from the U.S. Air Force.
“I feel blessed to be able to give back,” Nix said. “You never know who needs something. If we are able to brighten their day and give them something extra, that’s what we should be doing.”
The event is part of Dinontas’ mission to support veterans who may be struggling financially, emotionally, or socially as they adjust to life beyond service. The organization was founded by U.S. Navy veteran Ron Cimo, who spent more than 40 years in uniform.
“We just want to give back to the community,” Cimo explained. “We get to know their names, hear what they did in the service, and connect in a meaningful way.”
Cimo started the nonprofit after recognizing how difficult reintegration can be. For some veterans, even close friends and family can feel unfamiliar upon returning home.
“Coming off some deployments, it was hard to integrate back into society,” he said. “Everything looked different. I just had to approach it differently. I know what veterans go through, and I want them to feel appreciated.”
In just six years, Dinontas — Greek for “giving” — has hosted more than 24 veteran clothing giveaways, offering brand-new items ranging from shirts and jackets to shoes and socks. For Army veteran Rodney Tillman, the support means everything.
“They give you brand-new stuff — socks, shoes, whatever,” Tillman said. “It’s very good.”
VA representatives say partnerships like this are essential. Luis Sandomingo, assistant chief of Voluntary Services, says community support helps the VA better meet veterans’ everyday needs.
“These community partnerships are crucial for us to move forward and impact our veterans in a positive manner,” Sandomingo said.
As volunteers help veterans browse new clothing and carry items to their cars, the mission remains clear: giving back to those who gave their all.
“It’s our way to give back to the veteran community,” Cimo said.