The Armed Services YMCA is making a significant impact in downtown Killeen by opening their state-of-the-art food pantry. This initiative aims to address the growing need for food security among military personnel and their families. Earlier today, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held, and 500 Thanksgiving meals were distributed to local heroes. The 5 Star Food Market, located on 8th St, is their second food pantry in the area, demonstrating their commitment to serving the community.

Empowering Military Families with Food Security

Opening Ceremony and Meal Distribution

The Armed Services YMCA's decision to open a food pantry in downtown Killeen is a testament to their dedication to the military community. As seen during the ribbon cutting ceremony earlier today, there was a sense of excitement and gratitude among those in attendance. The distribution of 500 Thanksgiving meals ahead of the holidays was a heartwarming sight, with a long line of local military personnel and veterans already forming by 7:30 Thursday morning. This act of kindness shows that the YMCA is not only providing a physical resource but also offering a sense of support and community.Thom Skelley with the Sons of The American Legion was deeply touched by the scene. "It's just a blessing but it's bittersweet," he shared. "You know the need shouldn't be there but as long as the need is there, we're there to support them." This sentiment highlights the importance of such initiatives in times of need.

Helping Hands from the Bush Family

Walker Bush, the grandson of former president George H.W. Bush, and his wife Lora Bush were actively involved in distributing the Thanksgiving meals. Lora expressed their passion for helping with food insecurity. "Seeing firsthand the food insecurity and the childcare situation that these families are facing, like we should be at the forefront of this, helping as much as we can." Walker, a Marine Corps veteran himself, emphasized the importance of getting the word out and helping in any way possible. Their presence added a special touch to the event and showed the unity within the community.

Fighting Food Insecurity Among Military Families

Antionette Wiggins, the Senior Director of Military Programs at ASYMCA, shared that many military families experience food insecurity. Being located right next to Fort Cavazos, they see this need firsthand. "People don't realize that we don't make a lot of money in the military, so with this food pantry being here it helps a lot of people that have insecurity," she said. Wiggins herself was stationed at Fort Cavazos while in the military and understands the challenges faced by single parents. "It makes us feel good to help somebody else because when I was in the military and I was a single parent, I didn't have no help."One of the families benefiting from the food pantry is Chantelle Mccloud, a military spouse in Killeen. She has been using the ASYMCA's food pantry in Harker Heights for years. "It's helped out a lot, you know, especially with me having three kids… you know it really goes a long way for a lot of families," she said. This shows the tangible impact that the food pantry is having on the lives of those in need.Starting this Saturday, the pantry will be open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., making it easily accessible to all military personnel and their families. All they need is a military ID. This ongoing support will continue to make a difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity.