During this Thanksgiving season, a concerning issue emerges - one in nine working-age veterans is facing food insecurity. According to Feeding America, this is a significant problem that affects a large number of those who have served our country. Yale School of Medicine's Veterans Aging Cohort Study surveyed thousands of veterans, and an alarming 24% reported being food insecure. The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines food insecurity as a household-level economic and social condition with limited or uncertain access to adequate food.

Impact on Veterans

Retired Air Force Lt. Col. and America's Warrior Partnership (AWP) CEO Jim Lorraine shared his insights. He emphasized that the veterans most impacted are those on fixed income or those who are severely disabled on fixed income. Lorraine served nine combat deployments as a flight nurse and retired as a lieutenant colonel and the deputy command surgeon for the United States Special Operations Command after 22 years of service. Now, he takes care of his wife, who is also a veteran. This holiday season, he encourages people to think about how they can give back.

Veterans volunteer at a 90% higher rate than those who didn't serve in the military. Those who know about AWP are asked to tell veterans how the nonprofit can help them in times of crisis. Lorraine also suggested ways people can help, such as donating at checkout - whether it's a turkey, canned goods, or supporting local American Legion or VWF events. "Live with your heart," he said.

The Air Force veteran believes the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has made progress but noted that only about 50% of the nation's 17.5 million veterans are enrolled. The National Library of Medicine found that veterans struggling with food insecurity are nearly four times more likely to deal with suicidal ideation compared to their more financially stable counterparts. They also face transition challenges, limited job opportunities, insufficient transition education, and difficulties applying military skills to civilian roles.

Despite the Challenges

Despite all these difficulties, Lorraine still stands by serving in the U.S. military. He believes it is a great way forward for young people without higher education opportunities. "Join the military. It changed my life," he said.AWP just celebrated its 10-year anniversary and has helped nearly 61,000 veterans nationwide over the years. For more information about the resources it provides, click here.