Washington, DC - The Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center (DCVAMC) has been selected as a future site of a Fisher House for veterans and their families. According to Medical Center Director, Mr. Sanford M. Garfunkel, the DCVAMC Fisher House will be operational in 2008, depending upon funding.

Mr. Zachary Fisher established the Fisher House Foundation in 1990 to provide "homes away from home" for veterans in need of long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation. The homes provide temporary residences for veterans and their families. Since its founding, more than 50,000 families have been Fisher House guests.

The homes are constructed on government property - military bases and Veterans Affairs medical centers. They are professionally decorated and equipped with common areas, including kitchens, laundry facilities, dining and living rooms and libraries. Larger homes include elevators.

Following a stringent application process, Fisher agrees to build the homes and donate them back to the government upon completion. Homes are financed through a cooperative effort between Fisher House Foundation and community donors. Community support is needed if the Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center Fisher Home is to become a reality. Once built, the home will be operated entirely by the Medical Center.

"We are excited by the prospect of offering another level of service to veterans in the Washington DC metropolitan area." said Mr. Garfunkel. "Veterans recuperating from medical procedures and going through lengthy rehabilitation will certainly appreciate having their families nearby."