Serving Those Who Served: Soldiers’ Angels Tackles Food Insecurity for Military and Veterans

© Courtesy of Soldiers’ Angels

Serving Those Who Served: Soldiers’ Angels Tackles Food Insecurity for Military and Veterans

In a country that prides itself on honoring its military heroes, the realization that many Veterans and active-duty service members struggle with food insecurity is a hard pill to swallow. Our military members make immense sacrifices for our nation, and yet, too often, their basic needs go unmet. However, thanks to organizations like Soldiers’ Angels, we have the opportunity to give back to those who have given so much—serving those who have served.

Soldiers’ Angels, a national nonprofit dedicated to aiding military personnel, Veterans, and their families, has launched a crucial initiative to combat food insecurity among Veterans and active-duty service members. The inaugural Military and Veteran Food Distribution event in Dallas, held on September 8, 2023, was an outpouring of support for those in need. But this wasn’t just a one-time effort; it’s part of an ongoing commitment to support military-connected individuals and families facing food insecurity.

On the second Friday of every month, the Dallas Military and Veteran Food Distribution event will provide up to 200 pre-registered Military-connected individuals and families, on average, 75 lbs. of groceries.

But Soldiers’ Angels recognize that hunger doesn’t discriminate based on military status. That’s why they’ve expanded their reach beyond Veterans to include active-duty service members, guardsmen, and reservists. The need is palpable, with nearly 100,000 military Veterans residing in Dallas County alone.

"If they're living on disability, it really isn't enough. Some of them are on food stamps and this helps them get by," said Amy Palmer, president of Soldiers’ Angels.

The provisions from Soldiers’ Angels act as a lifeline for individuals and families facing financial hardships, allowing them to redirect limited resources toward other essential expenses. For many, it’s a reminder that their sacrifices haven’t been forgotten, and their service is still valued by their community.

Take, for instance, the story of Mike Leddy, a Marine Veteran and the sole provider for his family of four. Living on disability, the support provided by Soldiers’ Angels’ food distributions was invaluable to the Leddy family, offering a sense of relief and gratitude in a time of financial hardship.

But it’s not just Veterans who benefit. Active-duty service members, often overlooked in discussions of food insecurity, can also benefit from these distributions. And with approximately 15.4 percent of all active-duty personnel experiencing low food security, Soldiers’ Angels’ expanded initiative couldn’t have come at a better time.

Soldiers’ Angels doesn’t just stop at providing food; they foster a sense of community among those they serve. Retired Army Veteran Michael Hood is proof of this mission in action. After benefiting from Soldiers’ Angels’ support during his deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, he now volunteers at the Dallas Food Distribution site, creating a cycle of giving.

“It’s great to be a part of the organization on the volunteer side so I can give back to people who gave to me when I was deployed,” said Michael.

Year-round, Soldiers’ Angels’ commitment to alleviating food insecurity among military personnel and Veterans is unwavering. Events like the Military and Veteran Food Distribution provide a sense of belonging and solidarity, reminding Veterans and active-duty personnel that they’re not alone in their struggles. Holiday-focused campaigns are incredibly impactful, providing support during a time of year that can be especially challenging for those in need.

Through their tireless efforts and the support of dedicated volunteers and sponsors, they continue to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who served our country with honor—and there are countless opportunities to get involved, either as a volunteer or a donor.

Visit soldiersangels.org to learn more.