11/12/2025
This Veterans Day, we remember Deacon Ray Chimileski, founder of OPERATION CHILLOUT and a Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award honoree, whose vision and compassion continue to uplift veterans across New Jersey.
More than two decades ago, Ray learned that several homeless Vietnam veterans were living under a railroad trestle in Dover, NJ. When he saw the conditions firsthand, he launched Operation Chillout, an interfaith, volunteer-led effort to provide food, clothing, and support to people living without shelter.
One year after his passing, Ray’s mission lives on. Operation Chillout is now preparing for its 2025 Winter Homeless Outreach Campaign, working to fill and distribute 1,000 survival backpacks with warm winter clothing and essentials for veterans and others in need across New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania.
Ray believed in easing the burden of homelessness “one person at a time.” This Veterans Day, we honor his enduring legacy and the volunteers who continue to serve in his name. ❤️💙
🎒 Learn how to support: operationchillout.org