Free Food Distribution Event

The New Mexico VA Medical Center recently launched its inaugural Free Food Distribution, a significant initiative designed to provide essential nourishment to Veterans, their families, and local community members facing food insecurity. This effort was made possible through a partnership with Roadrunner Food Bank, showcasing a coordinated effort to support those who have served our country, as well as the surrounding community near the Medical Center and Military Base. The initiative was coordinated by VA staff members from various offices, including Public Affairs, the Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE), Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (HUD-VASH), and Social Work.

On January 22, 2025, the Veterans Memorial Center at 1100 Louisiana Blvd SE became a vibrant hub of activity filled with energy and purpose. The event saw 23 volunteers, including enthusiastic community members and dedicated staff, as well as service members from nearby Kirtland Air Force Base who volunteered both on and off duty. Their tasks involved breaking down and organizing pallets of food into manageable sections, pre-packing food bundles, coordinating the efforts of helpers, directing traffic and assisting those looking to receive portions of food free of charge.

Despite the cold and windy weather, which underscored the challenges faced daily by the local homeless population, the team successfully distributed food to 178 individuals, exceeding their initial goal. They established an impressive pace and set a strong precedent for future drives. Leading up to the event, the organizers held several meetings to coordinate traffic, food and equipment deliveries, volunteers, signage and advertising- all aimed at reaching the most vulnerable individuals in the surrounding area as efficiently as possible. Each event held promises to bring insight, and with that insight a hope for continuously improved logistics and a higher turnout.

One of the event’s main coordinators, Roberto Christian, a Social Worker and Vocational Development Specialist at the medical center, shared insights on the importance of this program.

"Almost every day, unhoused Veterans and those at risk of becoming unhoused come to our building at #96 and express concerns not just about housing insecurity but also food insecurity. This area has become something of a grocery desert since the local Walmart shut down."

The distributed food items included fresh vegetables, rice, chicken, and various dry pantry staples. Feedback from Roadrunner Food Bank staff affirmed the community's need for such initiatives and confirmed that the location and support team are well-equipped to facilitate these efforts.

Christian continued, "The response to our food distribution was overwhelming—178 individuals, including Veterans, active-duty military, and non-Veterans expressed their gratitude and urged us to make this a regular event." 

The food drive serves a dual purpose; providing meals to anyone in need and fostering a vital sense of belonging among Veterans and their families. Many Veterans experience food insecurity, and initiatives like this are crucial in addressing their needs while reinforcing the message that they are not alone in their struggles. The New Mexico VA Medical Center acknowledges these challenges and aims to promote creative community involvement through proactive solutions.

The New Mexico VA Medical Center acknowledges the challenges faced by many and is committed to fostering creative community involvement through proactive solutions.

The Free Food Drive will be held monthly on the fourth Thursday, starting February 27, 2025. The sessions will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (or until supplies last) at Veterans Memorial Park. This regular initiative aims to promote reliability and raise awareness among community members, ensuring that this essential service remains accessible to those in need. The more Veterans and community members take advantage of this opportunity, the more food can be approved for distribution.

The program's partnership with Roadrunner Food Bank and ONE Albuquerque greatly enhances its advertising reach and effectiveness. These collaborations are crucial for maximizing resources and ensuring that food and information reach the Veterans and families who need them most. Ads for the food drive were distributed to Veterans, VA employees, service members and on all social media platforms.

The impact of the food drive extends beyond mere nourishment; it strengthens community bonds and reminds participants that they are valued members of society. The camaraderie observed during the event highlighted the spirit of cooperation that fuels this initiative, demonstrating that together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.

Caitlyn Henke, an Occupational Therapist, echoed the sentiments of support and need. "Food insecurity is a daily challenge in HUD-VASH, and we needed a direct way to help. Through ongoing conversations with Roadrunner Food Bank, the idea for a mobile pantry took shape. Thanks to the dedication of many, our first event was a great success. I hope this effort grows into a stable resource for Veterans while fostering a strong community of support among volunteers and continued collaboration."

As the New Mexico VA Medical Center looks ahead to the next food drive on February 27th, the commitment to empowering Veterans and their community remains unwavering. The team hopes to welcome even more participants, both walk-up and drive-thru, with a goal of doubling its initial distribution.

Save the date and contact any of the VA offices mentioned above to learn how you can get involved. Together, we can make a significant impact in preventing hunger among Veterans and vulnerable community members, while also offering support and recognition to those in need.

In reflection on this show of camaraderie at the New Mexico VA, it’s clear that the commitment to support the less fortunate transcends our walls. Each effort, driven by the belief that “one person can make a difference and every person should try,” reminds us that together we can create lasting change. Let us be inspired to embrace this philosophy, empowering ourselves and one another to uplift our community in meaningful ways.