CDCE Promotes National Poverty in America Awareness Month Resources

January is Poverty in America Awareness Month, an opportunity to reflect on the difficulties faced by so many who struggle daily to survive and provide basic needs for themselves and their families. Gwen Ramos, Atlanta VA Health Care System Center of Development and Civic Engagement Chief (CDCE) noted that poverty is one of the most pervasive challenges in our communities and requires a multifaceted approach. She added there are several practical ways individuals and communities can come together to fight against poverty such as volunteering at a local food bank.

CDCE teams up with the national nonprofit Soldiers’ Angels to host a monthly military and Veteran Food Distribution (formerly Mobile Food Distribution (MFD)) at the Atlanta VA Clinic. This volunteer opportunity is normally held on the last Friday of each month from 9:00am – 2:00pm. To learn more about this volunteer opportunity, please contact Mr. John Harris (Soldier’s Angels Representative) @ jharris@soldiersangels.org.   One Veteran mentioned how the program ensures that those who sacrificed for our nation don’t have to worry about putting food on their families’ dinner tables.

In addition, CDCE has joined forces with Must Ministries in Cobb County to host a Mobile Food Drive in the Atlanta VAHCS Cobb Multi-Specialty Clinic front parking lot from 3-4 p.m. on January 25, 2024.

Veterans must have transportation to the location to pick up food. Please note if you have previously registered there’s no need to register again.  You will only need to just show up. Only new participants will be required to register.

Veterans must sign up in advance via the link below and select “VA Clinic” as their pantry pickup location from the drop-down.  https://www.tfaforms.com/4978350.