August 1st, 2024
Photo Credits: Nadiah Mohammed
About 30 minutes from the Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino (FARSB) distribution center sits a Community Partner cherished by Veterans and Food Bankers alike. As we spotlight some of our most dedicated partners, this month, we want to highlight Disabled American Veterans Chapter 12 (DAV12).
For those who have served our country, there is nothing more fundamental than ensuring they have enough food and sustenance to keep themselves healthy. DAV12 knows this and keeps this at the heart of everything they do. Since 2020, they have partnered with FARSB as part of our Feeding Seniors and Veterans pillar through the Military Veteran Program (MVP). As the second-largest distribution site, they serve 190 households each month.
DAV12 works to give veterans the chance to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity, no matter what assistance they come to DAV12 for. They provide no-cost assistance to veterans and their families, helping them receive benefits, fight for better legislation and funding for veteran-focused programs, and spread awareness of the immense sacrifices veterans and active duty members have given for the freedoms of the American people.
Through the MVP, DAV12 holds monthly distributions for veterans and their families. These food items are given out to those who need to supplement what they buy or have no other food available. They also allow FARSB to use their site as a DoorDash Hub for FARSB's Nourish Now program, which delivers food boxes to homebound individuals throughout different communities. Thanks to the DAV12, FARSB can serve homebound neighbors in San Bernardino, Redlands, and Highland neighborhoods more efficiently.
On DAV12 grounds, there are dwarf trees that allow veterans to pick fresh fruit and produce in a wheelchair-accessible manner. There is also a seating area surrounded by plants and trees, providing shade and a space for relaxation or reflection. This area offers a place for people to gather with fellow warriors, volunteer to support the nonprofit, or help in the garden as a way to unwind.
They also have a memorial plaque with the names and ranks of fallen warriors from the San Bernardino area. Anyone coming to their campus can take a look at the names there and remember the cost of the freedom they enjoy.
Though they do plenty of work for veterans themselves, they also help families of fallen soldiers. Through the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary (DAVA), DAV12 assists families of fallen veterans so spouses and dependents get the help they need in honor of the sacrifices their loved ones have made.
Much work is needed to ensure every veteran gets the best care possible, but the vital work that DAV12 does is worth the difficulty. "Feeding America Riverside and San Bernardino directly impact our veteran community through their monthly food donation and holiday meal distribution. We truly appreciate their partnership. Without them, none of this would be possible,” said Commander Jose Mendoza, DAV12.
We couldn’t make as big of an impact without our partners, so to all who served, and DAV12, we salute you!
If you’d like to learn more about FARSB’s Military Veteran Program, please visit:
or contact Program Coordinator, Daniel Sazo at dsazo@feedingamericaie.org
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