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reserve your ad hereI began by cultivating cannabis for a few close veteran friends. Over time, through word of mouth, the need for the program expanded statewide, leading to the creation of Homegrown4Heroes. Despite numerous setbacks, including navigating through being a single mother of four without support, I persisted. The community rallied behind me, raising the necessary funds to establish my non-profit within a remarkable 12 hours.
During this period, I sought assistance, particularly in testing our products. In my spare moments, I frequented a local hydro shop in Virginia Beach owned by veterans. Little did I know that a routine visit to collect donations for our annual coat drive would mark a pivotal turning point in my life’s trajectory.
I had the pleasure of being introduced to LaTonya Warren, the CEO and Founder of Armintia LLC, by a close friend who immediately recognized the potential synergy between LaTonya and me. Cheryl Dobbins, owner of Grow Depot, facilitated this introduction, and I am sincerely grateful for that.
LaTonya Warren, a graduate student at Old Dominion University, has made significant strides in her academic and entrepreneurial pursuits. She was the first at Old Dominion University to have her cannabinoid research proposal approved, marking her as a pioneering figure in reshaping the narrative surrounding cannabis and bridging the gap between academia and the cannabinoid industry. This proposal ultimately paved the way for the establishment of Armintia LLC, a federally registered company dedicated to cannabinoid research, development, and education. Armintia LLC holds certifications as a Small Business, Woman-owned, Minority-owned, and Veterans-owned enterprise.
However, LaTonya’s endeavors didn’t end there. Armintia LLC expanded its scope to become an approved education and training provider by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), demonstrating LaTonya’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the cannabis space. This license is a prerequisite for individuals seeking employment as a Certified Bud Tender at a cannabis dispensary and for obtaining cultivation or manufacturing licenses.
Arminita LLC was invited to serve as the Cannabinoid Hub in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and the city’s Economic Development department graciously offered office space. During this time, I recognized the necessity of collaborating with LaTonya. LaTonya’s guidance pushed me beyond my perceived limits! Together, we devoted countless hours to refining my business structure and securing licensing to ensure that my services to our veterans establish the benchmark for excellence.
Cultivating Support: Homegrown4Heroes
In a world where heroes often go unsung, there’s a program silently making waves, providing a lifeline to those who’ve served their country. Homegrown4Heroes is not your typical veteran support initiative; it’s a beacon of hope fueled by compassion and community spirit. Let’s delve into this grassroots movement and explore the profound impact it’s making.
At its core, Homegrown4Heroes is a testament to the power of unity and empathy. Founded on the belief that veterans deserve access to safe and effective cannabis treatments, the program operates solely on the generosity of donors who cultivate cannabis in their own homes. This unique approach not only ensures a sustainable supply of high-quality cannabis but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among supporters.
But why cannabis? For many veterans, traditional treatments for conditions like PTSD, chronic pain, and anxiety fall short. Prescription medications often come with a laundry list of side effects and can be ineffective in managing symptoms. Cannabis, on the other hand, offers a natural alternative that has shown promising results in alleviating a range of physical and psychological ailments.
What sets Homegrown4Heroes apart is its commitment to providing cannabis free of charge to eligible veterans. By removing financial barriers, the program ensures that those in need can access the relief they deserve without added stress or financial strain. This simple yet profound act of generosity has the potential to transform lives and restore hope to those who’ve sacrificed so much.
But Homegrown4Heroes is more than just a provider of cannabis; it’s a support network built on compassion and understanding. Veterans who participate in the program not only receive access to free cannabis but also find a community of like-minded individuals who understand their struggles firsthand. The sense of belonging and solidarity that Homegrown4Heroes fosters can be just as healing as the cannabis itself.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the dedication of volunteers who donate their time, resources, and expertise to cultivate cannabis for the program. These individuals are the unsung heroes behind the scenes, working tirelessly to ensure that their fellow veterans receive the care and support they need.
As we reflect on the importance of supporting our veterans, let’s not forget the innovative programs like Homegrown4Heroes that are making a difference in their lives. By providing safe access to high-quality cannabis and fostering a sense of community, this grassroots initiative is changing the narrative surrounding veteran care. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful solutions come from the ground up.
Follow online:
@homegrown4heroes
@armintia_001
@womencultivatorsofva
Feature Photo: Ryan Gageby
