Local Hometown Hero Project Boosts Veteran Food Program with $3K Donation

PHOTO PROVIDED From left are Commissioner Amber Concepcion, Commissioner Chair Mark Higgins, Deb Burger, Mel Curtis, Brian Querry, and Commissioner Steve Dershem.

Bellefonte is celebrating its latest Hometown Hero banners. This initiative has raised nearly $3,000 for the YMCA’s Military Share Program. This program is important because it provides free food to veterans, military spouses, and active-duty soldiers.

The Hometown Hero banner program began in 2015 and has showcased five rounds of banners honoring veterans and first responders. This year alone, the program raised about $3,000 to support the Military Share Program, which started in January. It feeds local veterans and their families once a month.

Debra Burger, who helps with the banner program, shared how impactful the fundraising has been. The latest round featured 46 banners honoring 55 heroes from different eras, including the Spanish-American War. “We have a diverse set of honorees, including fathers, sons, husbands, wives, and even first responders,” she said.

Community members can apply to have a banner made for a hometown hero for $200, which covers a two-year display. The profits go back to supporting those who have served. For those interested in participating, applications can be found online for the 2026 display.

The Military Share Program has seen significant growth, currently supporting 75 families. Mel Curtis from the Moshannon Valley YMCA feels the program is vital. It fosters strong relationships within the military community while ensuring veterans receive necessary support.

Some veterans worry about taking food from those in need. Curtis reassures them, saying, “No, all the food is set aside for veterans, and there’s plenty for everyone.” Even surviving spouses of deceased veterans can access the program.

The program operates solely on donations and grants. Just $15 can feed an entire family. Curtis hints they may expand the program to provide meals twice a month and consider additional pickup locations.

The Military Share Program distributes food on the second Monday of each month at the C3 Sports & Event Center starting at 10 a.m. Interested veterans can register online or contact Mel Curtis for more information.