CINCINNATI — Every month, about 200 veterans in Cincinnati receive vital food assistance through a mobile food distribution program at the VA Medical Center. Each veteran gets around 75 pounds of groceries, which helps sustain them for about four weeks.
Nicole Comer, who leads voluntary services for the Cincinnati VA Medical Center, emphasizes how important it is for veterans to have access to resources that might not be available elsewhere.
This program began in 2022, but by January 2025, the nonprofit Soldiers’ Angels took over its operations. This change brought significant improvements to the service. Amy Palmer, president and CEO of Soldiers’ Angels, mentions that the organization is now the largest food provider focused exclusively on veterans in the U.S.
Originally founded in 2003 to support deployed service members, Soldiers’ Angels has since expanded its mission to assist active duty personnel, veterans, and their families. Palmer notes that they can now purchase well-balanced food items, ensuring veterans receive not just any food, but nutritious options.
The mobile food distribution process is designed for ease. Veterans can stay in their cars while receiving food, making it a quick and smooth experience. Each month, 175 spots are available, ensuring fairness—every veteran gets the same amount of food, regardless of when they arrive.
To sign up, veterans create a profile and secure a monthly slot through a link provided by Soldiers’ Angels. This system is more user-friendly, as veterans only need to validate their profiles once a year, rather than registering each month.
The next mobile food drive is set for Friday, October 17, at the VA Medical Center. Though spots are already filled for this month, veterans can register now for next month’s distribution, which will include Thanksgiving items.
A recent survey indicated that food insecurity affects nearly 11% of veterans, highlighting the ongoing need for programs like this. Initiatives like this not only provide food but also foster community among veterans, helping them support one another.
For more information, veterans can visit Soldiers’ Angels’ website.
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