In northwest Pennsylvania, nearly 18% of households receiving food assistance have at least one member who has served in the military. Military Share, a Produce Express Program of the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania, is designed to provide fresh, nutritious foods for families with at least one member who has served or is serving in the armed forces or National Guard. For the convenience and privacy of the individuals and families served, Military Share mobile food distributions take place on site at the Erie VA Medical Center and armory locations throughout Second Harvest’s 11-County Service area.
The first Military Share mobile food distribution will take place on Thursday, November 17th at 5 p.m. at the Erie VA Medical Center, 135 East 38th Street, in Erie. The distribution will occur in the South lot under the second floor pavilion outside the second floor entrance.
“Second Harvest is incredibly grateful for the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military,” said Karen S. Seggi, executive director of Second Harvest. “We are proud to offer a program that provides support to those that have given so much.”
“Our community partners play such a crucial role in serving Veterans – and we have been blessed with an incredible community of support,” says John Gennaro, Erie VA Medical Center Director. “We are stronger together and we are grateful to partner with Second Harvest in serving those who served.”
While the specific items distributed at each Military Share will vary based on Second Harvest’s available inventory, each eligible, registered family will receive: fresh produce, one quart of fresh milk, one dozen eggs, cheese and a box of shelf-stable pantry staples such as soup, pasta, sauce and cereal. When available, meat, fish, and poultry products will also be included.
Military Share is funded by donations which help to subsidize Second Harvest’s food and transportation expenses. To learn how you or your organization can sponsor a Military Share distribution in your community, please contact Cindy Plymyer at (814) 459-3663 x 103 or cplymyer@nwpafoodbank.org.
