Helping those that have served for our country

Today is Thursday, October 29th. I met 2 extraordinary men who depend on the Hunger Network for food. Why are these men extraordinary? Because they have both served our country as a member of the military... One just got back from Iraq and the other is a Vietnam War veteran.

Joel is 32 years old and has 12 years of military service. He is currently in the Army Reserved. Back in 2006 he was deployed to Iraq for 16 months. When he returned home toward the end of 2007, he found himself with out a job and a family to support. Joel has spent the last 2 years looking for work in security or really anything because he needs a job. He has gone on lots of interviews and filled out hundreds of application but is never chosen for the position. Kellie his fiance was only able to find a part time job. Not knowing what else to do and with small children to feed, they turned to the Hunger Network for help. Without the help of the Hunger Network... Joel says it is not about feeding himself because he could go without.... it is about feeding his children.

Roger is a 62 year old Vietnam War Veteran with service with the US Navy. He served 6 months in Vietnam before he was injured. Once he returned home and for the last 30 year or so, Roger worked in security and did some factory work. Following his wife and father's deaths in the last few year... He took in his 88 year old mother. About 3 years ago... Roger's health took a turn for the worst and now he is unable to work at all. Roger now lives on a fixed income and after rent and utilities... he doesn't have enough money for food for him and his mother. He also turned to the Hunger Network for help. Roger says that the volunteers at the hunger center are so nice and he is thankful every day for the help.

Hearing these 2 stories for the first time this morning, makes me understand even more how important the work of the Hunger Network is because if anyone should receive help... it is those in the military.... just like we depended on them... they depend on us!