At Soldiers’ Angels, fighting hunger isn’t something we do just one month a year—it’s a mission we take on every single day. But each September, during Hunger Action Month, we take extra time to shine a light on the many ways we work year-round to ensure that no Veteran, Service Member, or Military family has to wonder where their next meal will come from.

Food insecurity is not uncommon within the Military community. According to a RAND report, approximately 15.4% of all Active Duty personnel have low food security, meaning they lack consistent access to enough nutritious food for an active, healthy life. Veterans are impacted as well, with nearly 1 in 9 working-age Veterans facing food insecurity, and 1.2 million low-income Veterans use SNAP. Soldiers’ Angels is on the frontlines of addressing this critical need every single month of the year.

Food Distributions: Fresh, Nutritious Support Monthly

One of the biggest ways we fight hunger is through our Military & Veteran Food Distributions. Held monthly in eight cities across the country, these events provide Veterans and active duty Service Members with about 75 pounds of fresh produce, meat, and pantry staples. Since launching in San Antonio in September 2015, the program has expanded to Atlanta, Charleston, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Orlando, and Washington D.C. In 2024, Soldiers’ Angels supported 1,755,008 Service Members and Veterans with food support, distributing 1,555,911 pounds of food with the help of thousands of Angel volunteers.

The need is so great that we just rolled out a new online registration system starting in August 2025 to improve access to our events. Veterans complete a one-time profile with income documentation, receive assigned time slots based on need, and requalify annually. This system simplifies access and prioritizes those most in need.

Food Pantries: Reliable Access in Local Communities

In addition to distributions, we are excited to announce the roll-out of Food Pantries! Our first pantry was established in Detroit, in partnership with the Detroit Pistons, to provide healthy groceries to Military and Veteran families facing food insecurity. These events are held twice per month and offer convenient access to essential items like fresh produce, frozen goods, and pantry staples. Building on Detroit’s success, new pantries are opening in West Palm Beach, Florida, and Charlotte, North Carolina, bringing consistent, convenient support to more communities.

Box Lunches: Nutritious Meals Delivered with Care

Another way we fight hunger is through Box Lunches, non-perishable meals provided to VA caseworkers for distribution to Veterans who may be unsure of their next meal. They’re also a staple at Stand Downs, where homeless Veterans receive services and supplies. Packed year-round with protein, fruit, and snacks, Box Lunches can be stored, shipped, and distributed wherever they’re needed.

Connection Over a Meal

Soldiers’ Angels volunteers and VA Hospital Representatives coordinate luncheons and dinners for Veterans and Service Members across the country. These gatherings do more than provide a hot meal—they foster community, offer companionship, and remind our heroes they are not forgotten. Volunteers serve delicious food, organize engaging activities like Bingo, and sit alongside Veterans to share conversation and connection. These events bring joy and dignity to those who might otherwise face isolation, while also addressing an immediate nutritional need. Sponsorships and volunteer support make these luncheons and dinners possible, ensuring Veterans can gather, eat, and feel appreciated.

Canteen Gift Cards

Soldiers’ Angels also provides VA canteen gift cards to Veterans needing a meal during their VA visits, offering dignity and choice.

Join the Fight Against Food Insecurity

From large-scale food distributions to personal, one-on-one support, Soldiers’ Angels is fighting on every front to ensure those who served have the nourishment they need. This Hunger Action Month, you can help ensure every Veteran and Service Member has access to nutritious meals: volunteer at a food distribution or packing event, sponsor a food distribution, luncheon or pantry, or donate to fuel these life-changing programs.

About the Author

Ashley Ray has been a member of the Soldiers’ Angels communications team since 2013. She supports blog writing and social media and loves telling stories of Angel volunteers, Service Members, and Veterans.

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