Veterans are more likely to experience food insecurity. In 2017, 20% of homes fed through Feeding America’s network of food banks included a veteran. To help, The Food Bank created the VIP Veteran Pack Program to provide needed food and supplies to those who served.

VIP Veteran Packs include ready-to-eat entrees, soup, fruit and vegetables in easy-to-open cans, as well as toiletries such as razors, body wash and deodorant. The packs are provided to veterans on a monthly basis and are designed to have the nutrition needed to encourage a healthy diet. As one of The Food Bank’s newest programs, VIP Veteran Packs are distributed in thirteen counties — Adair, Audrain, Benton, Boone, Callaway, Cole, Knox, Marion, Miller, Pettis, Phelps, Saline and Schuyler. The Food Bank is actively working to expand the program.

The VIP Veteran Pack Program has grown to serve 500 veterans on a monthly basis.