Feeding our Veterans

Last month we launched our Emergency Food Kits.

These were inspired by a visit to the North East of England where, during a 2 day visit we met and supported more than a dozen Veterans. It became apparent that every one of them was having to live on state benefits due to PTSD and/or a lack of work. Many were attending college courses or living in specialist accommodation for ex-forces personnel. It also became apparent that ALL of them were finding it almost impossible to make ends meet and most were having to go without FOOD for 3-4 days EVERY fortnight as the benefits they are receiving are simply not enough.

After paying rent, gas, electric, travel and in some cases child maintenance payments there is very little, if anything, left to buy food.

We immediately set about creating the Emergency Food Kits which contain things like rice, pasta and sauces, soups, baked beans and sausages, tea and coffee, chocolate and noodle snacks. There is enough in each box to provide up to 14 meals and a few snacks and we've even included shower gel and shampoo.

These kits are proving to be very popular and are already making a big difference to the quality of life of our Veterans. Each kit costs just £18 including postage! £18 to feed a Veteran for up to a week, meaning that they don't have to go without food.

The cost of living and the cost of food has increased dramatically for all of us during the last few years but sadly benefit payments are not covering that extra cost. To us, it is totally unacceptable that those who have served our country are having to live, or as many of them say, just survive, with next to nothing. There are thousands of Veterans living in real poverty and having to go without. We have provided clothing, bedding and basic household items to Veterans who have very little. These are things that many people struggle to find the money for at times but most of us manage to eat well.

You can make a difference and help us to do more for those who are finding it so tough. Please sponsor a food kit for just £18 by making a donation at www.justgiving.com/theveteranscharity

THANK YOU