News
Diana Gregory Outreach Services: Nourishing Veterans and Seniors Through Food Access
DGOS fights food insecurity, supporting veterans and seniors through outreach services.
Last Updated on July 5, 2024 by Daily News Staff
Diana Gregory Outreach Services (DGOS) began as a humble fresh produce delivery service in 2009, operating out of a pick-up truck. Over the years, it has evolved into a remarkable organization that supports thousands of seniors, including many veterans, through mobile food drives and nutrition education initiatives. With the generous support of the Walmart Foundation and a LISC Equitable Food Access grant, DGOS is expanding its reach, hiring more staff, and increasing the number of individuals it can serve.
A Personal Journey:
The inspiration for DGOS came when Dennis McGarry, a Vietnam War veteran, noticed the lack of resources available to his fellow veterans and other individuals facing food and housing insecurity. Determined to make a difference, he crossed paths with Diana Gregory, the founder and CEO of DGOS, during a cooking class for residents of his Phoenix apartment building. Together, they embarked on a mission to fight food insecurity, initially focusing on seniors, many of whom were veterans. Six years ago, DGOS expanded its efforts to include pop-up events at VA hospitals, providing much-needed support to those who have served their country.
From Humble Beginnings to Impactful Initiatives:
What began with a pickup truck and a dedicated team of volunteers has grown into a passion project for Diana Gregory. Having retired from a successful career in sales and marketing at Anheuser-Busch, she now leads an initiative that delivers thousands of pounds of fresh produce to those in need. Thanks to a $110,000 LISC Equitable Food Access grant, funded by the Walmart Foundation, DGOS is scaling up its efforts and plans to support 20,000 seniors and veterans with food access and nutrition education this year.
Supporting the Cause:
DGOS has received additional support through the Funds to Feed Initiative, made possible by the City of Phoenix and administered by LISC, totaling $175,000 since 2020. The recent Equitable Food Access grant will allow DGOS to increase the frequency of its distribution events and serve 20% more people compared to the previous year. This milestone would not have been possible without the funding provided by LISC, as acknowledged by Diana Gregory.
Expanding Reach and Volunteer Engagement:
The grant has enabled DGOS to hire more staff and pilot a volunteer engagement model that offers stipends to trained drivers responsible for packing and delivering fresh produce. La Shonya McNeil, a program officer with LISC’s health team, explains that this approach has attracted a dedicated group of veteran and senior volunteers who are committed to improving food access and fostering social connections among underserved individuals in Phoenix.
Addressing Food Inequities:
DGOS is one among eight LISC Equitable Food Access grantee partners working to combat local food system inequities throughout the United States. They employ various interventions, such as hosting neighborhood client choice food pantries and advocating for food policy changes. By supporting organizations like DGOS, LISC aims to ensure that those who have selflessly served their country have consistent access to nourishing food.
Veggies for Veterans
Filling an Overlooked Need:
While mental health issues and homelessness among veterans receive significant attention, the lack of food access remains an often overlooked yet pressing concern. In the United States, one in nine working-age veterans lives in food-insecure households, and one in four veterans has diabetes—an ailment directly linked to poor nutrition. Diana Gregory hopes that by supplying fresh food, DGOS can provide healthier options for veterans and their families, making a tangible difference in their lives.
Gratitude and Enrichment:
A crucial aspect of DGOS’s program is recognizing veterans for their contributions. Each recipient of a bag of produce is personally thanked for their service, a gesture that holds significant meaning for many veterans. Expressions of gratitude may be rare for some veterans, particularly those who are homeless. By providing nourishing food and acknowledging their service, DGOS aims to enrich the lives of veterans and seniors in a meaningful and tangible way.
Diana Gregory Outreach Services has transformed from a grassroots initiative into a powerful force in the fight against food insecurity. Guided by the dedication and vision of Diana Gregory, DGOS continues to expand its reach, supporting thousands of seniors and veterans with fresh produce and nutrition education. With the support of grants and partnerships, DGOS is making a significant impact, ensuring that those who have served their country have access to the nourishment they need. Through their efforts, DGOS is not only filling stomachs but also uplifting spirits, one bag of produce at a time.
For more information on Diana Gregory’s Outreach Services, visit: https://dianagregory.com/
Check out this release about Veggies for Veterans: https://www.lisc.org/our-stories/story/thanking-veterans-their-service-one-bag-groceries-time/
Food and Beverage
Philly-Style Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwiches: An Easy, Cheesy Dinner
Bring sandwich night home with these Philly-style chicken cheesesteaks. Thinly sliced chicken, sautéed onions and peppers, and melted cheese fill toasted hoagie rolls for a satisfying meal in about 35 minutes.
Food & Drink
Easy Philly Chicken Cheesesteak Recipe
Tender chicken, golden onions, sautéed peppers, and melted cheese tucked into a toasted hoagie roll—this Philly-style chicken cheesesteak brings plenty of comfort to the dinner table without a complicated ingredient list.
Inspired by the beef cheesesteak, this chicken version makes a satisfying lunch, a casual weekend meal, or an easy dinner when you want something warm and filling. The trick is to slice the chicken thin, give it room to brown, and melt the cheese right over the filling before scooping everything into the rolls.
This home-style recipe includes bell peppers, with mushrooms as an optional addition. Make it your own with creamy white American cheese, mild provolone, or a slice of each.
Recipe at a Glance
● Servings: 4 sandwiches
● Prep time: Approximately 15 minutes
● Cook time: Approximately 20 minutes
● Total time: Approximately 35 minutes
● Equipment: Large skillet with a lid, cutting board, sharp knife, and a separate skillet or oven for toasting rolls
Ingredients
For the filling
● 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, very thinly sliced across the grain
● 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
● 1 large green bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
● 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral cooking oil, divided
● 1 teaspoon garlic powder
● ½ teaspoon paprika
● ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
● ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
● 8 slices provolone or white American cheese, or a combination
For the sandwiches
● 4 hoagie rolls
● 2 tablespoons softened butter
● Mayonnaise, optional
● Hot sauce or sliced pickled peppers, optional
Optional addition: 8 ounces sliced mushrooms. Cook them with the vegetables, working in batches if needed so they brown instead of steam.
How to Make Philly-Style Chicken Cheesesteaks
1. Slice and season the chicken
Slice the chicken as thinly as you comfortably can, cutting across the grain. Toss with the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Kitchen tip: If the chicken is difficult to slice, place it in the freezer for 15–20 minutes to firm it slightly first. This optional chilling time is additional to the recipe’s listed prep time.
2. Sauté the onions and peppers
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook for approximately 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned.
Transfer the vegetables to a plate.
3. Cook the chicken
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the chicken in an even layer, cooking in batches if necessary.
Cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, turning and separating the pieces as they cook. Timing will vary with the thickness of the chicken and the heat of your pan. Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F, checking the thickest pieces with a food thermometer.
Use a spatula to break the cooked chicken into smaller, sandwich-friendly pieces.
4. Toast the rolls
While the chicken cooks, split the hoagie rolls without cutting all the way through. Spread the cut sides with softened butter.
Toast them butter-side down in a separate skillet over medium heat until lightly golden. Alternatively, toast them cut-side up under the broiler, watching closely.
5. Combine the filling and melt the cheese
Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the chicken and toss together. Reduce the heat to low.
Arrange the filling into four portions and place two slices of cheese over each portion. Cover the skillet briefly, just until the cheese melts. If your skillet is too small, melt the cheese over two portions at a time.
6. Fill and serve
Spread a little mayonnaise inside the rolls if desired. Scoop a portion of cheesy chicken and vegetables into each roll.
Finish with hot sauce or pickled peppers if you like a little heat, and serve immediately.
Tips for a Better Sandwich
Keep the chicken thin. Thin slices cook quickly and make the sandwich easier to bite into.
Give the pan some space. Crowding traps moisture. Cooking in batches helps the chicken develop a browned surface.
Choose a sturdy roll. A roll with a soft interior and enough structure to hold the filling works well. Light toasting helps it stand up to the juices.
Pick your cheese. White American gives the filling a creamy texture. Provolone adds a mild, slightly tangy flavor. Combining them gives you a little of both.
Adjust the vegetables. Try red bell pepper for a sweeter filling, add mushrooms, or keep it simple with onions and cheese.
What to Serve With Chicken Cheesesteaks
French fries, potato wedges, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad all make easy sides. For a simple lunch, add a dill pickle and a handful of potato chips.
Can You Make the Filling Ahead?
Yes. Cook the chicken and vegetables ahead, then keep the filling separate from the rolls. Reheat it until hot throughout before adding cheese and assembling the sandwiches. Toast the rolls just before serving for the best texture.
A Comfort-Food Favorite for Your Dinner Rotation
These Philly-style chicken cheesesteaks turn a handful of everyday ingredients into a hearty meal. With tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and cheese melted into every serving, they’re an easy option for sandwich night.
What goes on your chicken cheesesteak—provolone, white American, mushrooms, or extra peppers? Tell us in the comments.
Find more recipes and meal inspiration in the STM Daily News Food & Drink section.
Related reading from STM Daily News
- Easy Homemade Chicken Alfredo Recipe Another comforting chicken dinner to try.
- Fried Chicken from the Comfort of Home More inspiration for homemade chicken meals.
- How to Make Country Style Lemonade A refreshing drink to serve with your sandwiches.
- STM Daily News Food & Drink Explore more recipes, food news, and meal ideas.
Helpful cooking reference
Safe Minimum Internal Temperatures — FoodSafety.gov Supports the recipe’s instruction to cook chicken to 165°F.
- Philadelphia Cheesesteaks — Visit Philadelphia — Explore Philadelphia’s signature sandwich and cheesesteak culture. Visit Philadelphia
- A Guide to the Best Cheesesteaks in Philadelphia — Includes shops serving traditional and chicken variations. Visit Philadelphia
- Chicken From Farm to Table — USDA — Guidance on handling, thawing, cooking, and storing chicken. Food Safety and Inspection Service
- Leftovers and Food Safety — USDA — Helpful storage and reheating guidance for leftover sandwich filling. Food Safety and Inspection Service
Daily News
Major Construction Begins on Metro’s East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Line
LA Metro has moved the East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project into major construction. The 6.7-mile Van Nuys Boulevard line will add 11 stations, connect with the G Line and regional rail services, and is now targeted for completion in early 2032.
After years of utility relocation and planning, LA Metro is moving into major construction on a new rail line along Van Nuys Boulevard. The milestone also comes with a revised early-2032 completion target.
LA Metro has officially marked the beginning of major construction on the East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project, moving one of the region’s most important rail projects from preparatory work into full-scale construction.
Metro held a groundbreaking ceremony on October 19, 2026, for the 6.7-mile line, which will run along Van Nuys Boulevard from the G Line busway north to San Fernando Road in Pacoima. The project will add 11 light-rail stations serving Van Nuys, Panorama City, Arleta and Pacoima.
This was not the project’s first groundbreaking. Metro held an earlier ceremony in December 2022 when crews began relocating utility infrastructure. The new milestone is more consequential for riders: the major-construction phase covers the guideway, stations, traction-power substations, rail systems and a maintenance and storage facility.
From utility work to a new rail corridor
The project has spent several years in utility relocation, property acquisition, design and other early work. Metro’s current construction timeline shows major work continuing from 2026 through 2032, with phased traffic changes and K-rail installations expected along Van Nuys Boulevard.
When completed, trains are expected to operate every seven to 10 minutes during peak periods. The line will connect directly with the G Line and provide access to the Van Nuys Metrolink and Amtrak station. It is also expected to become an important transfer point for the future Sepulveda Transit Corridor and a planned Metrolink station in Pacoima.
The corridor already has a substantial transit market. Metro reported that bus Lines 233 and 761, which serve Van Nuys Boulevard, recorded nearly 20,000 boardings in September 2026. The agency also says approximately 19 percent of households in the project area lack access to a car, compared with about 8 percent countywide.
Those figures help explain why this project matters beyond its construction footprint. It is intended to give residents in some of the Valley’s most transit-dependent communities more reliable access to jobs, schools, healthcare and the wider regional transit network.
The opening target has moved to 2032
Metro’s current project page lists an estimated completion date of early 2032. That is later than the 2031 opening forecast the agency publicized when it celebrated an $893-million federal grant in September 2024. Earlier plans were more optimistic still: when utility work began in 2022, Metro said the first segment could open between 2028 and 2030.
The project’s financial scale has also grown clearer. In May 2026, the Metro Board established a life-of-project budget of approximately $3.999 billion and authorized the next phase of its progressive design-build contract with San Fernando Transit Constructors, a joint venture of Skanska and Stacy and Witbeck.
That authorization increased the construction contract’s value to roughly $2.431 billion. Funding for the larger project combines federal, state and local sources, including revenue from Los Angeles County’s Measure M transportation sales tax.
Rail returns to Van Nuys Boulevard
The East San Fernando Valley line will restore passenger rail to Van Nuys Boulevard for the first time since Pacific Electric ended streetcar service there in 1952. It will also become the first major new Metro rail project in the San Fernando Valley since the subway reached North Hollywood in 2000.
The historical parallel is significant. Van Nuys Boulevard once developed around electric railway service before the region shifted heavily toward automobiles and buses. Metro is now rebuilding rail in the same broad corridor, but as part of a modern network designed to connect local riders with bus rapid transit, regional rail and future high-capacity projects.
The current project ends in Pacoima. Metro continues to study a separate 2.5-mile northern extension that would reach the Sylmar/San Fernando Metrolink station. That extension is not included in the segment now entering major construction.
For riders, the October groundbreaking does not mean trains are imminent. Several years of disruptive and technically complex work remain, and the schedule has already moved beyond earlier forecasts. Still, it represents a tangible transition: the East San Fernando Valley line is no longer primarily a planning exercise or utility-relocation program. Metro has begun building the infrastructure that will carry trains.
That makes this a major step in Los Angeles County’s long effort to restore frequent rail transit to communities that lost it generations ago—and another chapter in The Long Track Back.
Primary sources
- LA Metro: Major construction will soon be underway
- LA Metro project page: East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit
- LA Metro Board meeting, May 28, 2026 — project budget and contract authorization
- LA Metro: $893 million federal grant announcement, September 6, 2024
- LA Metro: Advanced utility-work groundbreaking, December 2, 2022
This article is part of The Long Track Back, STM Daily News’ continuing coverage of how Los Angeles is rebuilding and expanding a passenger-rail network after decades of automobile-centered grow
For generations, the Santa Monica Pier sign has marked the start of a day at the beach. Now, the familiar blue neon landmark is preparing for a journey of its own.
Santa Monica scheduled removal of the 1941 sign for October 20–22, with shipment to Las Vegas anticipated October 26. The timetable is subject to change, according to the city’s October 19 announcement.
The temporary removal accompanies replacement of the aging bridge connecting Ocean Avenue to the pier. It also creates an opportunity to preserve the historic sign.
YESCO will restore it at its Las Vegas facility. The company’s experience includes work on the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign.
Crews will repair neon tubing, treat rust, repaint components and address structural needs while retaining historic features. The sign will remain in secure storage during bridge construction.
Once the project is finished, it will return above the new bridge at a slightly greater height for visibility and vehicle clearance. The city’s latest announcement targets project completion by 2028, ahead of the Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics.
Meanwhile, visitors can photograph a lighted, half-scale replica near Pier Burger.
For anyone who associates that glowing arch with Southern California memories, its absence will be noticeable. The restoration is intended to ensure future generations can make memories beneath it, too.
Source: City of Santa Monica — October 19, 2026 announcement
Related Links
- City of Santa Monica: Official sign restoration announcement — October 19, 2026. Primary source for removal dates, shipment to Las Vegas, YESCO’s restoration work and the sign’s planned return.
- Santa Monica Daily Press: Sign restoration during bridge rebuild — October 20, 2026. Additional local reporting on the project and visitor access.
- LAist: Sign removal and how to watch — Reporting on the removal schedule and public viewing opportunities.
Follow more Southern California stories at STM Daily News.
