One out of every five families in southeast Missouri is “food insecure.” And, according to food bank network Feeding America, one out of every five families they serve includes a veteran or current U.S. service member.
To tackle this problem, the SEMO Food Bank in Sikeston has partnered with the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff to launch a monthly mobile food pantry for veterans.
Research and development officer, Jennifer Wood says the Veterans’ Market has been in the works for several months now, and was recently given a push by a $1,000 start-up grant from the Walmart Neighborhood Market.
“We love our veterans and we want to serve them better,” says Wood. “They’ve given their lives and given their time to serve our country, to serve our families.”
One local Vietnam veteran, Larry Maglone, uses a meal program at SEMO Food Bank. According to a press release, he had no money left for food after he had paid his bills.
“Once, he went for a week without food before becoming acquainted with the Red Star food pantry and the House of Hope meal program,” said CEO Joey Keys, in the release. “We are grateful for all those who donate and work with us to feed others.”
Markets are scheduled to take place on the fourth Wednesday of each month under a tent at the VA Medical Center’s walking track. SEMO Food Bank staff will offer SNAP and Medicaid application assistance on-site, and depending on interest, classes on Chronic Disease Self-Management could be a future installment.
The first food-distribution will take place on Wednesday, June 26 from 8-10 a.m, and those interested in attending should bring an identification card and an empty box to carry food.