In honor of Memorial Day, Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas partnered with nonprofits and businesses to distribute donated groceries, prepared meals, and hand sanitizers to veterans and their families in South Los Angeles.
“This COVID-19 pandemic is greatly impacting our veterans and we are continuing our support of those who have served our country,” Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas.
The event was held at American Legion Chappie James Post 578 and over 60 veterans and their families were given their items by drive-thru.
“This is a very unusual Memorial Day, people are not doing BBQ’s and picnics as they would normally do,” said General Ruth Wong, Director of the Military & Veterans Affairs at Los Angeles County. “This food distribution is our community giving back to our veterans.”
Veterans served have seen a significant reduction in income due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The veterans who received items today were so grateful,” said Patricia Jackson-Kelley, Second District Appointee of the Veterans Advisory Commission. “Lots are not working during this time and need our support.”
Partners included the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Veterans Advisory Commission, Kilroy Realty, Fueling the Fearless, CEO Emergency Food Security Branch, LA Regional Food Bank, Chappie James Post, Park Mesa Heights Community Council, and the Office of LA City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson.
“I noticed that when resources were coming out there wasn’t anything specific for veterans and a lot of our veterans are homeless as well.” Latia Suttle of the Jackie Robinson Post 252. “I am glad for the drive thru pick-up today, lots of them don’t have transportation and are riding with others to get here.”
Fueling the Fearless donated prepared meals from Sweetgreen. LA Regional Food Bank provided grocery boxes and aided with grocery distribution.
