Veteran Food Security: How Farm2Veteran Is Feeding Those Who Served
Food is more than just sustenance. It is dignity, it is health, and it is a symbol of care. Yet, for too many of America’s veterans, consistent access to healthy food remains a daily struggle. Veteran food security—the ability of military veterans to access sufficient, safe, and nutritious food—continues to be an overlooked issue in the United States.
Enter Farm2Veteran, a nonprofit that is reshaping how we approach food assistance for our nation’s heroes. With over 420,000 meals donated and growing, this grassroots organization is proving that food can be a powerful bridge to dignity, community, and healing.
This post explores the powerful mission of Farm2Veteran, as discussed in a recent episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, and how their unique approach is redefining veteran food security.
The Origins of a Mission-Driven Nonprofit
Michelle KellerFounded in 2020 in Illinois, Farm2Veteran started not as a nonprofit, but as a for-profit farm. Its transformation into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization came from a simple question posed by its founder: “How can we serve veterans better?”
Michelle Keller, the current Senior Director of Development, shared her story during the VET S.O.S. podcast. After leaving a stressful corporate role, she found herself answering a Facebook ad for a local entrepreneur. That ad would change the course of her life—and help transform veteran food security in the U.S.
“We just decided—why not give everything to veterans?” Michelle explained. “The idea wasn’t fully formed yet, but the heart was there.”
With a skeleton team of three and the seed of a noble idea, Farm2Veteran began the process of becoming a nonprofit just as the COVID-19 pandemic struck. The journey to get their tax-exempt status took over eight months, but they used that time to build the infrastructure needed for long-term success.
Tackling Veteran Food Security Through Strategic Partnerships
Unlike traditional food assistance programs, Farm2Veteran doesn’t operate standalone food pantries or direct-to-door deliveries (at least not yet). Instead, they partner with established veteran service organizations that are already providing wraparound services like housing, counseling, and job placement.
This model has been key in their ability to scale quickly while maintaining focus on their core mission: enhancing veteran food security by delivering fresh, high-quality food directly to veterans.
One of their major partners is Volunteers of America (VOA) Illinois, which operates veteran-only supportive housing communities. Farm2Veteran supplies these sites with commercial freezers, refrigerators, and weekly deliveries of meat, eggs, and produce—all sourced from their own farm or from partner farmers across the U.S.
“We don’t just drop off food. We make sure the organizations we work with align with our values and serve veterans holistically,” Michelle emphasized.
Veteran Food Security Isn’t About Handouts—It’s About Dignity
One of the biggest challenges in addressing veteran food security is breaking through stigma. Many veterans are hesitant to seek help, even when they desperately need it.
Michelle described how veterans often downplay their needs or try to refer food donations to others they feel are “more deserving.”
“It’s not a handout—it’s not charity,” she said. “This food was grown for you. We want you to have it because you’ve already served. This is our way of giving back.”
That sense of intentional care is what sets Farm2Veteran apart. The food isn’t excess inventory or expired goods—it’s farm-fresh and raised specifically for veterans. That deliberate approach helps restore dignity and encourage participation.
Why Veteran Food Security Matters Now More Than Ever
According to Feeding America, nearly 1 in 8 veterans struggles with food insecurity. These numbers can be even higher for those with disabilities, mental health conditions, or fixed incomes. The transition to civilian life can create financial gaps, housing instability, and job market hurdles—all of which impact a veteran’s ability to afford nutritious food.
Michelle shared that many of the veterans they serve live in food deserts—areas without convenient access to fresh groceries. Others suffer from PTSD, limited mobility, or chronic illness, which further isolate them from support systems.
“When food is hard to come by, you don’t always make the healthiest choices,” she explained. “Veteran food security isn’t just about access—it’s about making sure the food is healthy and accessible in a way that respects the veteran’s circumstances.”
Scaling a Solution: From Illinois to a National Footprint
In just five years, Farm2Veteran has expanded operations from Illinois to nine states and is on track to deliver over 250,000 meals this year alone. Their model supports both veterans and local farmers—creating a win-win for struggling agricultural communities and those who served.
One Florida-based partner described the organization as “a godsend,” explaining that their orders helped keep his ranch afloat when the local meat market collapsed.
“We’re not just supporting veterans—we’re supporting American farmers,” Michelle said. “Veteran food security starts at the source. When we invest in local food systems, everyone benefits.”
This dual-mission approach also helps build community resilience and sustainable supply chains tailored for veteran needs.
Creating Connection Through Food and Friendship
The emotional impact of the work can’t be overstated. Michelle regularly visits veterans' homes, where she has become a familiar and beloved face.
“There’s this group of older Vietnam vets who call me their girlfriend,” she laughed. “They come out in their scooters when I visit. It’s like a little parade.”
Moments like these underscore how veteran food security goes beyond nutrition. Food becomes a conduit for conversation, camaraderie, and community—especially for older veterans or those living alone.
It’s also about choice and voice. When the veterans said they didn’t like kale? Michelle made sure it was off the next delivery list. That kind of feedback loop honors their preferences and ensures meals are not just nutritious, but also enjoyed.
Farm Fresh Hope Gala: A New Chapter in Fundraising
To raise awareness and funds for their growing efforts, Farm2Veteran is hosting its inaugural Farm Fresh Hope Gala on September 20 at Chicago’s Field Museum.
The event will feature comedian David Spade as the headliner, with veteran comic Tom Tran serving as host. It’s not your typical fundraiser—it’s a high-energy, after-hours celebration with food, drinks, and laughter, all in support of veteran food security.
“This is about making a splash,” said Michelle. “We want people to have fun while making an impact.”
How to Support Veteran Food Security
The need is urgent, and the ways to help are plentiful. If you’re inspired by this mission, here’s how you can support:
✅ Donate – Every dollar helps deliver fresh food to veterans in need.
✅ Sponsor a Meal or Event – Partner with Farm to Veteran to sponsor local or national initiatives.
✅ Attend the Gala – Tickets are available at www.farm2veteran.com/farmfreshhope.
✅ Spread the Word – Follow Farm to Veteran on social media (@farm2veteran) and share their mission.
✅ Become a Partner Farm – If you’re a rancher or grower, join the network and help provide meals in your area.
Conclusion: Reimagining Veteran Food Security for the Future
Veteran food security is not just about addressing hunger—it’s about recognizing service, restoring dignity, and building stronger communities through thoughtful, sustainable solutions. Farm2Veteran is proving that when we treat food as a tool for connection and care, the impact ripples far beyond the dinner plate.
As host Keith Cassant put it:
“This organization might be small, but the splash they’re making is huge.”
Let’s ensure no veteran is left behind at the table. Join the movement to secure food for those who’ve secured our freedom.
