For veterans facing food insecurity and housing instability in Central Florida, access to reliable meals can be an important first step toward rebuilding stability. Veterans Helping Veterans of Marion County is expanding that support, now providing food assistance to approximately 500 families each month through its partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.
Since taking over food pantry operations in January 2025, the organization has grown from serving around 100 families monthly to five times that number. Its food distribution has also increased from enough supplies for approximately 2,000 meals per month to more than 10,000.
The expansion reflects the growing need among veterans and their households, many of whom face challenges beyond food insecurity, including homelessness and financial instability.
Food Pantry Provides Groceries and Essential Supplies
Veterans Helping Veterans provides eligible veterans and their households with a monthly selection of groceries, including fresh meat, milk, eggs, produce, and bread. The pantry also stocks shelf-stable foods such as rice, cereal, beans, peanut butter, and canned goods.
In addition to food, families can access essential non-food supplies, including hygiene products and cleaning items.
Veterans typically visit the pantry once a month after meeting with a case manager. These appointments allow the organization to address additional needs and connect individuals with resources such as housing assistance, clothing, and other support services.
The goal is to provide more than temporary hunger relief by helping veterans address the circumstances contributing to their financial and housing challenges.
Veterans Find Support Beyond the Pantry
For some veterans, asking for assistance can be difficult, particularly after years of serving in the military and working to support themselves.
Juan, a United States Marine Corps veteran, was referred to Veterans Helping Veterans by a friend in October 2025 after experiencing homelessness and struggling with his mental health.
“I was homeless for a little bit,” Juan said. “My PTSD did get to me, and I got referred here. I came here on a limb, to be honest. It was hard to say the least because I was giving up on life. This place helped me out so much.”
The organization’s support gave him access to food while also connecting him with resources to help him work toward greater stability.
“It feels good to actually have a program like this,” Juan said. “You guys make us feel like we’re actually worthy, that we did serve our country, and that other people are grateful for it.”
Todd, the organization’s executive director and a fellow Marine Corps veteran, understands the challenges many people experience when facing homelessness and hunger. His own experiences help shape the organization’s approach to serving veterans.
“When you’re hungry, you’re hopeless,” Todd said. “Sometimes hopelessness comes in many degrees, but when you have a full belly, sometimes that hope returns.”
Volunteers Help Meet Growing Demand
The pantry’s work also depends on volunteers who help veterans navigate available resources and access the food they need.
Cheri, a volunteer whose family includes military veterans, assists approximately 15 to 20 veterans each day. Her responsibilities include helping visitors select groceries, sharing simple cooking suggestions, providing emergency food bags, and contributing food herself.
She also emphasizes creating an environment where veterans feel respected and comfortable asking for help, recognizing that seeking assistance can be difficult for those experiencing financial hardship.
As the organization continues to expand its reach, volunteers and case managers remain an important part of its efforts to address food insecurity and provide additional support to local veterans.
Through its partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, Veterans Helping Veterans of Marion County is helping more military families access nutritious food while connecting them with resources that can support their long-term well-being.
For more information about the organization’s work, visit Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.
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