Norwin Elks to host Military Share Food Distribution program
Apr. 10—Norwin Elks is set to host a Military Share Food Distribution program next month.
The event, scheduled for May 13, is the first program of its type to be hosted by the Norwin Elks, according to Don Rohac, chair of veterans affairs for the organization. It is being held in conjunction with the White Oak Vet Center and the Westmoreland County Food Bank.
According to Rohac, the food bank will provide items to be distributed at the drive.
"I know from talking to the folks at the food bank, they are very interested in developing a following here in the local area," Rohac said.
Food insecurity among veterans ranges from 6% to 24%, which is nearly twice that of the general population in the United States, according to a report released last year by the National Institute of Health and the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Those numbers are higher for high-risk groups like those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, 27%; female veterans, 28%; homeless veterans or those who have previously been homeless, 49%; and those with serious mental illness, 35%.
Rohac noted he does not know how many people will show up for the event, but said, "We'd certainly like to have a turnout more than what they typically see at other veteran military food share programs."
Veterans as well as active-duty military including the National Guard and reserve personnel are welcome at the event.
The food drive, which will run from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., will take place at the Norwin Elks Lodge #2313, 135 Elks Lane, Manor.
Registration can be completed by calling the White Oak Vet Center at 412-678-7704.
"This is what we do, this is what we volunteer for," Rohac said.
Megan Tomasic is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Megan at 724-850-1203, mtomasic@triblive.com or via Twitter .
