The Texas Valley Costal Bend VA will host a drive-thru food distribution for veterans and their families at the Harlingen Health Care Clinic on Aug. 15. The event begins at 9 a.m. and continues until supplies are exhausted.
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. VA asks veterans to remain in their vehicles while VA staff verify eligibility. Once eligibility is established, volunteers will place the food items in the trunk of the veteran’s vehicle.
The Harlingen Health Care Clinic is located at 2601 Veterans Drive.
VA has been screening for food insecurity since 2017 with data showing that post-9/11 Veterans seem to be at a higher risk for being food insecure, followed by women Veterans.
“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.”
In addition to health care, VA also provides education, employment and housing assistance to veterans in need. Veterans who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness should contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-4AID-VET for immediate assistance.