{"id":8282,"date":"2024-04-21T18:30:00","date_gmt":"2024-04-21T18:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/itsveterans.com\/?p=8282"},"modified":"2024-04-21T18:30:00","modified_gmt":"2024-04-21T18:30:00","slug":"va-and-usda-food-security-initiatives","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/itsveterans.com\/?p=8282","title":{"rendered":"VA and USDA food security initiatives"},"content":{"rendered":"

Originally published:<\/strong> 2024-04-21T18:30:00+00:00. Historical source article: benefits, rules, amounts and deadlines may have changed. Check the official source for current information.<\/p>\n

VA\u2019s Food Security Office<\/a> and the U.S. Department of Agriculture<\/a> (USDA) have partnered to improve food security, access to nutritious diets and healthful nutrition education for Veterans. This collaboration, facilitated by VA\u2019s National Center for Healthcare Advancement and Partnerships<\/a> (HAP), aims to advance Veteran well-being through enhanced food security measures.<\/p>\n

Food insecurity among Veterans<\/h2>\n

The high prevalence of food insecurity among Veterans underscores the urgent need for action. Food insecurity<\/a> as defined by the USDA is the limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate and safe foods, a condition that disproportionately affects Veterans and is linked to both physical and mental health challenges. Approximately one in nine<\/a> working age Veterans face food insecurity, emphasizing the importance of the partnership\u2019s efforts.<\/p>\n

Recognizing that food insecurity is a significant social driver of health, VHA is at the forefront of efforts to ensure that no Veteran struggles<\/a> to provide adequate nutrition for themselves or their families. <\/p>\n

\u201cAt HAP, we are committed to fostering partnerships that drive innovation and support for our Veterans,\u201d said Georgi Bady, HAP health system specialist. \u201cThe collaboration between VA and USDA exemplifies our dedication to enhancing the well-being of those who have served our country. Together, we are working toward a future where every Veteran has access to nutritious food and the resources they need for a healthy, fulfilling life.\u201d<\/p>\n

Addressing food insecurity<\/h2>\n

The partnership\u2019s activities include joint webinars with VA clinicians to educate them on legislation impacting Veterans\u2019 access to food support. This collaboration aims to give VA clinicians the knowledge to better support and inform Veterans regarding laws affecting them. VHA and USDA also partner with Feeding America<\/a> to provide information and support to address food insecurity among Veterans.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Food Security Office is addressing food insecurity among Veterans by helping VA clinicians support and inform food insecure Veterans by connecting them to resources both internal and externally. Together with our USDA partners, we are making strides in ensuring every Veteran has access to nutritious food and the support they deserve,\u201d said Dr. Christine Going, senior advisor, VA Food Security Office.<\/p>\n

Education and support<\/h2>\n

The upcoming spring webinar training with the USDA on The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children and Summer Feeding programs demonstrates the partnership\u2019s commitment to ongoing education and support for Veterans.<\/strong><\/p>\n

VA resources<\/h2>\n