Shreveport Introduces Currency of Caring Program to Support Military Families Facing Food Insecurity

Shreveport Launches Exciting New Program to Support Military Families

In a heartwarming initiative that promises to uplift the spirits of airmen and their families stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base, the Shreveport-Bossier Military Affairs Council is rolling out the Currency of Caring Program. This wonderfully crafted program aims to combat the serious issue of food insecurity affecting junior enlisted airmen and their loved ones.

Meals with Dignity

How does it work, you ask? It’s pretty straightforward! Local restaurants, including Jacquelyn’s Café, Rhino Coffee, and Marilynn’s Place, have committed to preparing and serving a complimentary meal—a tasty entrée, delightful side, and a refreshing drink—just for our military heroes and their families. All they need to do is present a Currency of Caring token, and voilà! A delicious meal awaits them, no questions asked!

Trey Giglio, President & CEO of the Shreveport-Bossier Military Affairs Council, beams with enthusiasm, saying, “The MAC is excited to introduce this new program to the community and BAFB. Currency for Caring will introduce airmen to many eating establishments in our community by giving them a meal with dignity.” Trey believes this initiative not only combats food insecurity but also strengthens the bond between local eateries and the military community.

The Bigger Picture

Food insecurity in the military is a pressing issue that has only recently come to light. A troubling study ordered by Congress revealed that nearly a quarter of active service members struggle to get enough healthy food. In fact, national reports show that a staggering 25.8% of Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard personnel face food insecurity, with 15.4% of these individuals being on active duty. An array of factors contribute to this situation, making it clear that a single solution won’t suffice.

Breaking Down Barriers

Nevertheless, programs like the Currency of Caring are paving the way to reduce the stigma attached to asking for help. In a community where support is vital, it’s crucial to identify ways to help our military members feel valued and understood.

Robert Tibi, Executive Director of the Shreveport-Bossier Military Affairs Council, emphasizes the importance of community involvement: “We thank the local restaurants who have stepped up and offered to honor the Currency of Caring tokens for our local BAFB airmen and families. If there are other restaurants interested in helping, these gestures are certainly welcomed. So often members of our community will ask how they can best support our military personnel, because it’s not always clear cut.”

Getting Involved

If you own a restaurant and want to help out or if you’re simply looking to support this noble cause, the Shreveport-Bossier Military Affairs Council is open to all suggestions! They have several avenues for community involvement, whether through monetary contributions or volunteering time. After all, supporting our military isn’t just a duty; it’s a shared honor.

By alleviating stressors like food insecurity, the Currency of Caring Program aims to enhance the overall well-being of military families, allowing service members to stay mission-focused without the heavy burden of wondering where their next meal will come from.

Learn More

Interested in learning more about how you can be a part of this meaningful program? Contact Rob Tibi at the Military Affairs Council office at 318-429-2418 or via email at [email protected]. You can also explore more by visiting https://sbmilitaryaffairs.com/ and discover ways to contribute to this wonderful cause.

As the Currency of Caring unfolds in our community, it stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of Shreveport and its commitment to taking care of those who dedicate their lives to protecting us. Together, we can build a resilient support system for our airmen and their families. Let’s make sure they know that they are not alone!