CHAMBERSBURG – A new food assistance program to support area veterans, active military and their families has been announced by Franklin County Commissioners, the Franklin County Office of Veterans Affairs and the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank.
Known as Franklin County MilitaryShare, this new program will provide fresh, nutritious food once a month, free of charge, to Franklin County families with at least one member who has served, or is currently serving, in the armed forces. The program is made possible thanks to the Franklin County Human Services Block Grant.
More than 20% of households receiving food assistance in central Pennsylvania have at least one member who has served or who is currently serving in the military. The Franklin County program joins nearly 30 other MilitaryShare programs that are currently assisting over 45,000 Pennsylvanians in the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank’s 27-county service region.
Distribution will occur on the first Tuesday of each month, beginning May 3, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 425 Franklin Farm Lane, Chambersburg. Proof of military service is required to participate in this free program, and participation in other food assistance programs will not prohibit individuals and families from taking advantage of Franklin County MilitaryShare.
Pre-registration is required as it allows organizers to order the correct quantity of food for each distribution event. Extra food will not be available on distribution days.
While items can vary, families participating in the Franklin County MilitaryShare program can anticipate receiving fresh produce, milk, eggs, cheese and a box of pantry staples such as soup, pasta, sauce and cereal. Other items like meat, fish and poultry may also be included when available.
For more information, or to register for Franklin County MilitaryShare, contact John McPaul, Franklin County Office of Veterans Affairs community outreach coordinator, at 717-263-4326 or jpmcpaul@franklincountypa.gov.
