Sweet moments of cookies, comfort and connection | va tampa health care | veterans affairs

For over a year, Fisher House 1 and the Chaplain Service at James A. Haley Veterans Hospital have collaborated on a heartwarming initiative, affectionately known as “Cookies with the

Chaplain”. Every other Wednesday, the dining room fills with the warm, inviting aroma of homemade cookies, generously prepared by Angie Strevella, program support assistant of the Fisher

House and coordinated by Sean Kelly, supervisory program support specialist at The Fisher House. “I really love baking cookies. They fill everyone with joy and happy memories,” said

Strevella, who bakes a majority of the cookies on Tuesday beforehand. “They just make everything better.” On these special afternoons, a chaplain takes a seat at the table, creating a cozy,

welcoming space for the staying at the Fishers House. It’s more than just a moment to enjoy delicious cookies; it’s a tie to connect, share stories and find comfort in the presence of a

compassionate listener. “We adapted this from another Fisher House program named ‘Cupcakes with the Chaplain,’ started by their manager Vanniecia Brown,” said Kelly. “This program allows

Veterans, families and caregivers to talk about issues ranging from spiritual to sports. Having a sympathetic ear that’s not necessarily part of the care team, Fisher House staff or other

guests can be beneficial for mental health and just getting through life.” Chaplain Roosevelt A. Hanna, who leads this special meeting, has seen firsthand the joy and solace it brings.

Families gather around, not just to savor the cookies, but to engage in heartfelt conversations that ease the burden of they stay. The effort has received glowing feedback, becoming a

cherished tradition for many. In a place where healing often goes beyond just the physical needs, “Cookies with the Chaplain” offers a sweet reminder of the power that rests in community,

kindness, and the simple joy of sharing a cookie with a someone who understands.