Last Friday, New Life Assembly of God church in Henryetta, played host to the soul-warming event known as the Feed the Vets program. Started six years ago by Donnie and Joyce McKay, the event brings the military community together to support neighboring veterans. Initially scheduled to kick off at 11 a.m., the event had to start early due to the overwhelming turnout of veterans beginning to line up at 9 a.m.
Last Friday, New Life Assembly of God church in Henryetta, played host to the soul-warming event known as the Feed the Vets program. Started six years ago by Donnie and Joyce McKay, the event brings the military community together to support neighboring veterans. Initially scheduled to kick off at 11 a.m., the event had to start early due to the overwhelming turnout of veterans beginning to line up at 9 a.m.
The Feed the Vets program has become a cornerstone for the veteran community. Donnie and Joyce McKay’s vision to support veterans in need has not only endured, but has flourished, with the community rallying behind the cause and taking up the reins each year.
A crucial collaborator in this noble initiative is the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 539, which has partnered with the Food Bank to ensure the success of the Feed the Vets program. One of the volunteers, who has been a part of the program since its inception, shared, “Okmulgee county has the most per capita for veterans ... that’s why they (Food Bank) chose Okmulgee County.”
The collaboration of the Food Bank and VFW Post 539 has been instrumental in the Feed the Vets program’s success. The program was born out of the realization that Okmulgee County has a significant veteran population, and there was a pressing need to address their nutritional needs.
As the clock struck 9 a.m., veterans lined up to receive food boxes filled with a diverse array of essentials, including fresh vegetables and delectable desserts. In spite of the cold and the wind, a charged atmosphere with gratitude and camaraderie came from volunteers, veterans, and community members working hand in hand to ensure the success of the event.
Taking place four times a year, the ‘Feed the Vets’ program allows for the continuous show of appreciation and support for those who have served their country. Thanks to the teamwork of VFW Post 539 and the Food Bank for their continued support of those who sacrifice for the benefit of others.
- If you have any questions about Feed the Vets, please call VFW Veteran Service Officer Tricia Bear at 479-4140952 or Leah Thompson at 205-505-5519.
If you wish to be added to the Feed the Vets call list, please text your name and phone number(s) to Bear or Thompson at the numbers above. Starting March 2024, Feed the Vets distribution will take place Thursdays instead of Fridays.
