Veggies for Veterans: Enriching Arizona’s Veteran Community

Veggies for Veterans, a program initiated by Gregory’s Fresh Market and the Phoenix VA Health Care System, has been making a significant impact on the lives of Arizona veterans. As a part of Diana Gregory Outreach Services, the program aims to address food insecurity and health disparities in veteran communities. By providing fresh fruits and vegetables, Veggies for Veterans ensures that no veteran or their family goes to bed hungry.

Veggies for Veterans, which started over six years ago at Victory Place, a veteran transitional housing facility in Phoenix, has grown exponentially. The program benefits over 16,000 veterans thus far. The recent event, held on December 12, 2023, at the Hayden VA Medical Center, witnessed the distribution of over 600 bags of nutritious produce.

Five times a year, Veggies for Veterans brings together community partners such as LISC Phoenix, Fry’s, Walmart, and many others to offer veterans healthy food choices. Volunteers play a crucial role, packing more than 600 bags of free produce at each event. These bags are then distributed to veterans in VA facilities and through drive-thru services.

By focusing on nutrient-dense food options, the program aims to combat chronic illnesses prevalent among veterans, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol. Access to fresh fruits and vegetables not only improves physical health but also contributes to mental well-being by fostering socialization and engagement among veterans.

The Veggies for Veterans program exemplifies the power of collaboration and community engagement in addressing the needs of our veterans. By supporting this initiative, Gregory’s Fresh Market, Diana Gregory Outreach Services, and their partners are making a tangible difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

As we observe national holidays honoring the military, it is heartening to see organizations like Gregory’s Fresh Market stepping up to support our veterans. The Veggies for Veterans program serves as a shining example of how a simple act of providing nutritious food can have a profound and positive impact on the lives of those who have selflessly served our nation.

Want more information about Diana Gregory Outreach Services, follow the link: https://dianagregory.com/

Also, if you would like to donate, please visit: https://dianagregory.com/donate/