Lois Fritz, president of New Freedom Farm in Buchanan, was recognized by the Roanoke Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross as a Military Hero during the chapter’s annual Celebration of Heroes Breakfast last Thursday.
She was among a number of Roanoke Valley individuals who were named Red Cross Heroes for their charitable, public safety, military, medical and educational work.
Fritz founded New Freedom Farm in 2016 to use horses to help veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), depression, anxiety, substance abuse and secondary traumas. The 501(c)3 non-profit organization survives solely off donations and faith. There is never a charge to veterans who wish to visit and all visitors are welcome by appointment.
Fritz continues the importance of reaching and helping veterans who have a high incidence of suicide.
New Freedom Farm has gotten support from a number of veterans organizations and individuals who see Fritz’s fight as one worth joining.
The farm uses horses— most rescued themselves— to help those individuals; all with essentially volunteers.
In a way, New Freedom Farm gives veterans an anonymous alternative for treatment. Anyone who serves the country or community can show up during business hours and simply interact with the horses— a therapy Fritz found comforting for herself. She’s also a veteran.
Fritz was at the breakfast at Hotel Roanoke and took the stage to accept the award.
The Red Cross handed out awards for 10 different categories.
“It really is just such a pride. First, what the American Red Cross does in our country, but also seeing what people we have in our community, what people are stepping out and sometimes we don’t even know what’s going on and how these folks are making an impact, saving a life,” Red Cross Executive Director Jackie Grant said.
Awards were presented in the categories of education, medical, 911 dispatchers, paramedic, firefighters, National Guard, workplace, Good Samaritan and military.
The event is designed to recognize local heroes who have saved a life, performed an act of courage, or who unselfishly serve and give inspirational leadership to the community, while also raising much needed funds to continue the American Red Cross mission of providing disaster relief.
