The Texas Valley Costal Bend VA will hold a free drive-thru food pantry for veterans on Feb. 22. The event takes place from 9-11 a.m., (or until supplies last, at the Harlingen Health Care Clinic at 2601 Veterans Drive.

Eligible veterans must be enrolled in health care at the VA Texas Valley Costal Bend Health Care System and present a valid VA identification card to confirm their veteran status.

Veterans are asked to remain in their vehicles while VA staff verify eligibility. After eligibility is established, volunteers will place the food items in the trunk of the veteran’s vehicle.

More than a million American veterans are food insecure, according to a recent study by the RAND Corporation. Adjusting for a range of characteristics, including age, the RAND report said Veteran status was associated with a 7.4 percent increased likelihood of living in a household with food insecurity, and a 9.2 percent increased likelihood of being very food insecure, which means regularly skipping meals.

“Not having enough to eat can lead to physical and mental health conditions and increase a veteran’s risk of suicide. Our food pantries are one way we are tackling this very serious issue,” said Public Affairs Officer Hugo Martinez. “If you’re a Veteran in need, VA is here for you.”

For more information, follow the Texas Valley Costal Bend VA on Facebook.