In early June, El Paso VA held its first free food distribution event and more than 100 Veterans took advantage of the new resource.
El Paso VA’s Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) is working with two key community partners—El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank and the Armed Forces YMCA—on this summer-long initiative.
The goal is to minimize the impact of food insecurity by feeding Veterans in need. Every Wednesday, the distribution starts at 8:30 and continues until supplies run out for that day.
Food insecurity a significant issue
Food insecurity is a serious and significant issue affecting many Americans either daily or at the end of the month when financial resources are exhausted. Food insecurity is especially prevalent among Veterans who are homeless, at risk of homelessness or those who have recently moved into transitional or supportive housing.
“Our food distribution is so important because one out of nine working-age Veterans live in food insecure households,” said CDCE Chief Ronald Rucker. “By joining with community partners, VA is working to combat hunger. The bottom line is no one should go hungry.”
El Paso VA’s food distribution events are easily accessible by using the Alabama entrance to the VA campus. Veterans don’t need to get out of their cars. Just get in line, check-in with CDCE staff and have the foodstuffs placed in your trunks.
Food insecurity can have lasting effects on a person’s physical and mental well-being and the food distribution events are one way VA is tackling this very serious issue. If you’re a Veteran in need, VA is here for you.
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