On June 24, we held our first Military & Veteran Food Distribution event in Washington, D.C., at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. The event provided food support to 150 D.C. Veterans and their families, providing each household with approximately 75 pounds of food, including fresh produce, meats, non-perishables, and essential pantry staples. This marks the eighth location in our nationwide food distribution network and a critical step in expanding support to the D.C. Military and Veteran community.

A Growing Need in the Nation’s Capital

According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, over 20,000 Veterans reside in Washington, D.C. With housing and grocery costs continuing to rise, even those receiving VA or Military benefits can find themselves struggling to meet basic needs. This is why offering food support in the D.C. area became a priority for Soldiers’ Angels.

“Expanding into Washington, D.C. has been a major goal for us. The need is there, the Veteran community is large, and we are committed to standing alongside them.” – Amy Palmer, CEO of Soldiers’ Angels

A Model That Works

Our Military and Veteran Food Distribution model has proven highly effective across the U.S., including Atlanta, Charleston, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Orlando, and San Antonio. In each location, pre-registered Veterans and Service Members receive 75 pounds of groceries through a drive-thru or walk-up format that promotes dignity and efficiency. At the D.C. event, volunteers helped load grocery bags directly into vehicles or assisted walk-up recipients—ensuring everyone was served with care and respect.

“Members of the Military – both past and present – have dedicated their lives to serving others, so it’s only right that when they need help, we’re there to serve them in return. We’re honored to partner with Soldiers’ Angels to ensure Military families in the Greater Washington region can access the nutritious food they need to thrive today and into the future.” – Radha Muthiah, President and CEO of the Capital Area Food Bank

Powered by Volunteers and Partnerships

This inaugural event was made possible through the efforts of dozens of volunteers and support from community partners, all of whom showed up despite the sweltering heat. Soldiers’ Angels is proud to collaborate with local VA staff, Military organizations, and other nonprofits in the region to identify families in need and coordinate services.

“Through our Nourish the Service program, we’re working to ensure that no Military family has to face food insecurity alone. We’re grateful to collaborate with impactful organizations like Soldiers’ Angels and Capital Area Food Bank to bring vital resources directly to the families who serve.” – Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO of Blue Star Families

As food banks in the area struggle to meet the community’s needs, we were proud to have such dedicated partners, including Capital Area Food Bank, Girl Scouts, and other local businesses, donate food to our efforts.

Looking Ahead: Ongoing Impact

This inaugural event was just the beginning. We will continue to host food distributions in D.C. on a monthly basis to fight food insecurity and ensure no military-connected family has to choose between rent and groceries.

Sign up as a volunteer or to learn more about how to support this vital initiative here.

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