One in nine working-age veterans faces food insecurity, which is a significant issue. To help, the Laredo VA Clinic and South Texas Food Bank have teamed up to provide food directly to veterans. They held their first food drive of the year on February 11, continuing a successful partnership that has been running for three years.
“We do it for our veterans,” said Crystal Cabido, an administrative officer at the Laredo Outpatient Clinic. The initiative now operates on a quarterly basis, happening every three months, making it more regular and accessible for those in need.
Veterans like Armando Flores, who served for nine years, appreciate this effort, especially with rising grocery prices. “It helps us a lot,” he said, highlighting how the food drive is a relief given the current economic challenges.
During these events, food is distributed rapidly in just two hours. However, the VA clinic goes a step further. They ensure that anyone who can’t make it still receives assistance by distributing leftover food in the following days.
Juan Patino, another veteran, expressed the emotional value of these drives. “I feel very American. I helped them. Now they’re giving me my pay back,” he shared, emphasizing the sense of community and support.
The recent drive catered to over 220 veterans, with many of these events often serving over 300. The clinic encourages volunteers, as they often rely on community support. “We usually have JROTC volunteers, but we welcome anyone who wants to help,” Cabido added.
The next food distribution will be on May 6. This ongoing effort not only combats food insecurity but also fosters a deeper connection between veterans and their community.
To learn more about veterans’ issues, you can visit the National Resources for Veterans’ Food Security.
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