Vets, Pets & Music Fest returns to Fernandina Beach Nov. 8 to support hospice patients

The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care will hold its third annual Vets, Pets & Music Fest on Sunday, Nov. 8, at the Green Turtle Inn in Fernandina Beach.

The fundraiser runs from 1 to 4 p.m. and features live music, food and pet-friendly activities, according to the Nassau County Chamber of Commerce.

Proceeds will support four programs serving hospice patients and families in Nassau County: veterans companionship, Pet Peace of Mind, pet therapy and music therapy.

Programs support veterans, patients and their pets

The veterans program connects veterans receiving hospice care with fellow veterans for companionship, provides recognition ceremonies honoring their military service and helps patients access Department of Veterans Affairs benefits.

Pet Peace of Mind helps hospice patients keep their pets by providing assistance with food, supplies and veterinary care when available. The program also helps arrange boarding or adoption when patients can no longer care for their animals, including after a patient's death.

Pet therapy volunteers bring specially trained animals to visit patients and families. The foundation says these visits can reduce stress, provide comfort and help relieve pain.

Community Hospice also employs two full-time music therapists who offer personalized sessions to patients and families, according to the foundation's event page.

Music therapy uses evidence-based techniques to help patients manage pain and anxiety, express emotions and maintain memory and communication. Sessions are tailored to each patient's needs and abilities.

Fundraiser helps cover services beyond medical care

The foundation says many of its supplementary services for patients and families receive limited or no insurance funding, making charitable donations essential to sustaining the programs.

The annual festival brings together supporters of veterans, animal welfare and hospice care while raising money for services that address patients' emotional,