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Printable Valentines For Veterans – Sending printable Valentines for veterans is a simple, meaningful way for Americans to show appreciation to those who served. Many schools, families, and community groups create cards each February as part of National Salute to Veteran Patients week or local drives. Free printable Valentines for veterans make it easy—just download, print, color or personalize, and deliver or mail them.
This resource page explains the tradition, points you to legitimate free printable options, and shares practical tips on where and how to send cards so they reach veterans in VA facilities or through trusted organizations.
Why Send Valentines for Veterans?
Veterans in hospitals, nursing homes, or living alone often appreciate handwritten notes of thanks. Cards remind them their service is valued. Programs coordinated by VA medical centers and nonprofits distribute thousands of Valentines each year during the week of Valentine’s Day. Homemade or printable cards from kids and adults are especially well-received.
Focus messages on gratitude: “Thank you for your service,” “Happy Valentine’s Day—we appreciate you,” or a short personal note. Keep language positive and general. Avoid political or religious statements so cards can go to any recipient.
Free Printable Valentines for Veterans
Several free resources offer ready-to-print card templates designed specifically for veterans. These are typically PDFs with patriotic designs, hearts, flags, or simple outlines for coloring.
One popular free option is the FREE Valentine’s for Veterans card by Mrs First Grade on Teachers Pay Teachers. It includes color and black-and-white versions that fold into cards. Download it here: FREE Valentine’s for Veterans card.
Another freebie is the Valentines for Veterans Card Templates by Glitteratis Classroom, featuring simple designs suitable for young students or group projects: Valentines for Veterans Card Templates-FREEBIE.
Teachers Pay Teachers free downloads generally require a free account. Print on cardstock or regular paper, fold, and add a handwritten message. Many other free veteran-themed or patriotic Valentine templates appear on the same site when you search “Valentines for Veterans free.”
You can also create your own with construction paper, markers, and simple heart or flag shapes—no special template required.
Printable Valentines For Veterans
Where to Send Printable Valentines for Veterans?
Check current guidelines each year, as addresses and rules can change.
- Local VA medical centers: Many VA facilities accept cards for inpatient veterans during National Salute to Veteran Patients week (the week of Valentine’s Day). Contact the Center for Development and Civic Engagement (or Voluntary Service) at your nearest VA hospital for the correct mailing address and any restrictions (no glitter, no candy in some cases). Search for your local VA on va.gov.
- Soldiers’ Angels Valentines for Veterans program: This national nonprofit collects store-bought or handmade cards and distributes them to deployed service members and veterans in VA hospitals. Include $1 per card (cash, check, or online donation receipt) to help cover shipping. Mail to the address listed on their current campaign page: Soldiers’ Angels Valentines for Veterans. Deadline is typically February 14. Cards can include attached individually wrapped non-melting candy.
- State veterans homes, VFW posts, or American Legion posts: Call ahead—many welcome cards for local veterans.
- A Million Thanks: This long-running organization accepts letters and cards of appreciation for service members and veterans. Visit their site for current mailing instructions and guidelines: A Million Thanks.
Always follow the specific organization’s rules: no loose glitter or materials that shed, keep cards reasonably sized, and use positive messages.
Tips for Making and Sending Cards
Print free templates on white or light-colored paper. Provide crayons, markers, or colored pencils for kids. Write a short message inside and sign with a first name and town if desired. Bundle multiple cards and mail early so they arrive in time for distribution.
For classroom or group projects, set a clear deadline a couple of weeks before Valentine’s Day. Local VA volunteer offices or congressional district offices sometimes coordinate collection drives—check their websites or social media in January.
Brief FAQ
Are the printable Valentines really free?
Yes. The Teachers Pay Teachers resources linked above are listed as free downloads.
Can I send cards to any veteran?
Most programs distribute generically to hospitalized veterans or deployed troops. Address cards “Dear Veteran,” “Dear Hero,” or leave the greeting open.
What if I miss the February deadline?
Many VA facilities and organizations accept thank-you cards year-round. Contact them directly.
Creating and sending printable Valentines for veterans takes little time and means a great deal to recipients. Download a free template, add a personal note, and help spread appreciation this Valentine’s Day.