The success of our Y-I Veterans Day Food and Clothing Drive exceeded our wildest expectations. Read a few highlights – followed by the heart-warming response from the Yakima County Veterans Food Pantry.
- Generous Yakima Indivisibles arrived at the General Meeting on November 8th with food and clothing to support local veterans.
- More Yakima Indivisibles gathered for the Veterans Day Parade on November 11th - bringing more food and clothing.
- And . . . out of the blue, Vanessa Castro and her son arrived with 10 gift certificates to Wray’s Thriftway for $50 each ($500 total). This amazing gift was provided by Vanessa’s husband, David Veloz, owner of Valor Paint and Construction.
- Our volunteers delivered the food, clothing, and gift certificates to the Veterans Food Pantry on Thursday, November 13th. . The response from the pantry appears below:
Hello Leslie,
This is Carmelle from the Veterans Program. I wanted to reach out and thank you again because your donation today was truly incredible. I attached the pictures so you can see just how much of a difference it made. The fruit was such a highlight since we almost never have anything sweet to give out. It is usually just beans and vegetables, so this felt really special. The spaghetti sauce and noodles are always a hit and the microwaveable meals were amazing. You put together such a thoughtful list and it shows.
As you saw, we’re usually well stocked on items like green beans, corn, and other vegetables. What we tend to run out of most often are soups and chilis, since those are always popular. Because we receive so many canned beans, chili without beans is a great option. It lets us pair a can of meat with beans to make a full, hearty meal.
Your list is already excellent, but I wanted to share a few areas where donations really help fill the gaps. We get plenty of beans, which are healthy and versatile, but they can be a bit plain on their own. Seasoning packets such as chili or taco mixes, or simple chicken and beef bouillon cubes, help families turn those staples into flavorful meals. Crackers to go with soups are also very appreciated.
Canned meats are another big help. We usually have enough tuna, but items like canned chicken, beef, ham, pork, or even Spam really help people create more complete meals. Pull-top cans are especially useful, since not everyone has a can opener. We do have a few to give out, but they are small and often get lost.
The shelf stable milk was such a gift. We have never had that before and it changes everything for our mac and cheese. I attached the meal kits we are building right now along with a list at the end of the items we still have to buy in order to make full meals. It helps show the direction we are going so it all makes sense.
One last thing that is not essential but means a lot is having some kind of treat for our veterans. Even something simple like fruit snacks goes a long way. It feels good to give families something small and fun once in a while.
Thank you again, truly. Your donation was one of the best we have ever received and everyone who comes in will feel that kindness.
V/R,
Carmelle
