Empowering Military Families: Addressing Challenges and Combating Food Insecurity

Citrus Harvest at the Pelican Pantry

Over 22,000 active-duty families, 213,000 National Guard/Reservist families, and 1.2 million veterans suffer from food insecurity

Military families in the United States confront a multitude of unique challenges that can strain their well-being and resilience. Among these challenges are frequent relocations, deployment separations, financial strain, childcare difficulties, education disruptions, mental health concerns, healthcare access disparities, spousal employment hurdles, legal complications, isolation, and often overlooked but critically important, food insecurity.

These eleven challenges underscore the importance of providing comprehensive support and resources to military families, ensuring they receive the assistance needed to navigate these complex issues.

In response to these pressing challenges, the Satellite Rotary Club of Military Family Support was established with a clear mission: to provide vital assistance, resources, and unwavering support to those who serve our nation. Among the myriad challenges faced by military families, the club has made significant strides in addressing one of the most pressing issues—food insecurity.  The club's efforts to combat food insecurity have already yielded impressive results, with over ten tons of food collected. This remarkable achievement highlights the dedication and collective strength of their members and supporters.

A Beacon of Hope for Junior Enlisted Families: 

Focusing their efforts on aiding junior enlisted families, the Satellite Rotary Club addresses the specific needs of those who are often most vulnerable to food insecurity, providing vital support during times of need.

A Pledge to Do More: 

The club's food drive is just the beginning of their commitment to addressing the challenges faced by military families. With each can of food collected, they pledge to continue their mission to provide assistance, support, and hope to those who serve.

Joining Hands for a Brighter Future: 

The Satellite Rotary Club of Military Family Support calls on communities, organizations, and individuals to join hands in their mission. Together, we can address not only food insecurity but also the many other challenges that military families confront daily.

Next Steps:

To ensure that military families at 29 Palms Marine Corps Base never go hungry, the Armed Services

March 2023 Food Drive in Progress

YMCA operates the Pelican Pantry, where active-duty families are welcome to donated pantry staples and hygiene products. In March 2023, the Satellite Rotary Club of Military Family Support organized a food drive to support the Pelican Pantry. Over 5 tons of food and more than $13,000 in donations were collected. To keep the pantry well-stocked, the Satellite Rotary Club of Military Family Support is organizing another drive for September 30, 2023. Food staples, hygiene products, and baby supplies (e.g., diapers and formula) can be dropped off at the collection site:

• Date: September 30, 2023
• Time: 9 AM to 3 PM
• Location: San Dimas Masonic Temple 220 N. Monte Vista Avenue San Dimas, CA 91773

In addition to donating food on the date of the drive, you can assist our military families by:

• Distributing the information to your membership/employees and community by contact the Club via the email below and obtaining a flyer for distribution: 
  
• Click on and sharing the Facebook, LinkedIn, and Chamber of Commerce Event Links.
• Volunteering your organizational and/or personal expertise and leadership.
• Collecting donations.
• Providing volunteers for collection and/or delivery.
• Making a monetary contribution.

Checks can be made out to the San Dimas Rotary Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) (write "USMC" in the memo). Send donations to PO Box 713, San Dimas, CA, 91773. For additional information or volunteer opportunities, contact the Rotary Club at 909-599-7530 or email sandimasrotary@gmail.com.

As we recognize the challenges faced by military families in the United States, the Satellite Rotary Club of Military Family Support serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved through compassion, dedication, and collective action. Their journey to address food insecurity is not only a testament to their commitment but also a beacon of hope for the countless families who make sacrifices in service to their nation.