It’s no secret that vets face many barriers after they leave the service. Needing more non-military work experience to find employment, lack of access to support services, and sometimes dealing with both physical and emotional problems as a result of their service, all add up to a difficult transition
While it’s true that veterans may qualify for different support and benefit programs due to injuries incurred during service, the majority of support is often used for treatments and medical bills, leaving very little for food.
Veterans may qualify to receive SNAP (food stamps) as well, but very few veterans access this vital resource
According to a Blue Star Families report, it’s estimated that there are 125,000 active-duty service members and their families who are currently experiencing food insecurity, in our country.
Military jobs are highly mobile, which can lead to military spouses in a constant search for work and support for childcare as family safety nets don’t align with new posts. This means making ends meet on a military salary, a tough thing for many families.
What can be done? For starters, veterans and active service members need to know about programs like SNAP that may be able to help. And thankfully, for any veterans who are older adults, that application just became a lot simpler.
125,000
5.8%
18-64
For active-duty military members and their families, part of the problem is awareness – many times the problem of food insecurity during service isn’t known or mentioned. Thankfully, as of January 2023, the Department of Defense has implemented a new “Basic Needs Allowance.”
We hope that this allowance is doing what is promised and helping military households meet their basic food needs. Learn more about the Basic Needs Allowance here.
For further updates on our work with military and veteran organizations and families, follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter. If you are in need for food, check out our food pantry directory for the closest pantry to you.
Veggies For Vets
BeConnected
For non-food resources you can call 1-866-4AZ-VETS (429-8387) or go to beconnectedaz.org for more information.
Veterans Crisis Line
If you are in crisis and need to speak with a crisis responder, please call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1.
Take Action
Want to take action in support of anti-hunger legislation for veterans and active-duty? You can here.
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