North Texas community supports Veteran food pantry

Bitterly cold temperatures didn’t slow the procession of Veteran vehicles lining up at Sam Rayburn Memorial Veterans Center in Bonham, Texas.

These Veterans weren’t waiting for flu shots or early check-in at their scheduled primary care appointments. They were lining up for cereal, apples and milk courtesy of a drive-thru food pantry, organized by the Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) office of VA North Texas held on the second Wednesday of every month.

This initiative, aimed at alleviating food insecurity among Veterans and their families in rural North Texas, is testament to the power of community collaboration.

“Just trying to do what we can to fight food insecurity.”

“There are just so many people in our area suffering from food insecurity and this is just us trying to do what we can as a community to fight it,” said Beverly Stratton, VA North Texas CDCE specialist.

Pictured above, Stratton packages food bundles for distribution to Veterans.

This particular Wednesday saw 70 Veterans and their families gather in the medical center parking lot to gather essentials. Behind this needed venture is a coalition of various local organizations and volunteers.

A significant supporter is Catholic Charities, providing the food that is distributed at the pantry. Fannin County community ministries local food pantry, Knights of Columbus, American Legion and Bonham VFW Post 4852 Auxiliary are among the other key contributors.

“Community has always stood united in times of need.”

This collective effort ensures the food pantry is well-stocked and capable of serving those who have served the nation. “We are here each month until we run out of food or the Veterans stop showing up,” Stratton said.

More than just a monthly event for VA in North Texas, the efforts in Bonham, Texas, are a symbol of community strength and a beacon of hope for Veterans in need.

“The Bonham area community has always stood united in times of need, and we’re glad VA can help organize and be part of an action that is making a significant difference in the lives of the Veterans we see in our clinics and waiting rooms each day,” said Jason Cave, North Texas VA medical center director.