ASHTABULA, Ohio — For veterans, the transition to civilian life can be unsettling.
In Ashtabula County, a group called "Feed Our Vets" has provided a place for them to regain their footing. But now, they are asking for help.
"Veterans love to be around other veterans because they know they have each other's backs," pantry director Tracy Bidwell said.
Bidwell opened the food pantry eight months ago after 20 years of working in health care and seeing the need among her veteran patients.
"Too proud to go to the local pantry, stand in line, or even ask for help, so I thought this would be something they could be around each other and come in, be like a little mini grocery store and enjoy each other," Bidwell said.
The building on Center Street was donated rent-free for a year, but now they're scrambling to find the funds to continue.
"I'm hoping when this airs that other veterans throughout the NEO area will see this and we can't get people together and save this building," Veterans Memorial Park Director Monte Foltz said.
The group needs about $75,000.
There are several ways you can help the group:
- Food donations.
- The group is hosting a garage sale on July 24.
- Gift cards.
- August 8 food drive at Jackie's Tavern in Painesville.
For more information on how to help them, click here.
