Merski, Harkins: Nearly $80,000 awarded to fight veteran hunger, food insecurity
Rep. Robert Merski April 12, 2024 | 2:36 PM
ERIE, April 12 – Erie will have new resources to help area veterans fight hunger and food insecurity, thanks to two state grants totaling nearly $80,000, state Reps. Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, both D-Erie, announced today.
The lawmakers said the funding awarded under the Veterans’ Trust Fund – administered by the state Department of Military and Veterans Affairs – includes $39,049 to Metro-Erie Meals on Wheels, Inc., to provide food services for veterans and $39,000 to Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania to support the MilitaryShare program.
“Erie veterans put everything on the line to keep us safe and secure,” Merski said. “Now, some of them are facing hardship that threatens their own health and safety, and they need our help. One way we can give back is by working to make sure they don’t have to worry about keeping nutritious food on the table for themselves and their families. Securing this funding helps ensure that these heroes who fought for us don’t have to fight hunger or food insecurity.”
Harkins said, “The sacrifices our veterans made were never small ones. They risked their lives and gave up precious time with loved ones to protect and defend our nation. Some faced trauma and still live with the after-effects. I am deeply grateful for their courage and selflessness, and also thankful for the funding that will help make their lives a bit easier.”
The grants are part of a package awarded by the DMVA. More information about the grants is available here: https://www.media.pa.gov/pages/Military-and-Veteran-Affairs-details.aspx?newsid=680#:~:text=Annville%2C%20PA%20%2D%20The%20Shapiro%20Administration,profits%20and%20Veteran%20Service%20Organizations.