Most military veterans understand what “tough times” mean as they serve their nation.
After the fact, though, hardships can still clobber them, and that has Charlie Tarr, director of Venango County’s Veterans Affairs office, hurrying to help.
Venango County has been targeted for a distribution of free fresh produce and other grocery items for veterans and their families who fall under specific income guidelines.
Tarr, working to get the word out, said the program, “Military Share Produce Express,” is set for 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 2, at the Franklin VFW Post, 411 9th St. It is open to National Guard members, reservists, active military, veterans of any branch of service and their families.
It is sponsored by the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania, a non-profit food distribution program. There are income guidelines to qualify with the limits ranging from $18,210 annual household income for an individual to $37,650 for a family of four.
Tarr, a 1966 Franklin High School graduate who has served several stints as VA director in Venango County over the years, said he is pleased the food distribution is focused on veterans.
“They gave up a lot to serve in the military and for the protection of the country. It’s a small way of saying thank you and it is also needed,” said Tarr.
“I think a lot of older veterans, probably more men then women, will benefit from this,” said Tarr. “The ones that come through this office looking for help are asking for a little bit of everything. Some have trouble getting the food they need at the end of the month because they have run out of funds and there are other ones who just don’t have enough to feed their families after they pay their bills. So, this will really help.”
Individuals must register before April 2 with Gerry Weiss at Second Harvest Food Bank. The telephone number is (814) 459-3663, Ext. 120.
“This comes at a good time because the need is getting greater now,” said Tarr. “I don’t really know why it is occurring now because we didn’t have that for a long time. But, the cost of living is higher now and the income isn’t increasing as fast as that cost of living. It’s true for everyone, including our veterans and their families.”
