HVAF’s Pantry is full of clothes, hygiene items, and food for all veterans and their families.

Caira’s Story

This offering can be crucial to some veterans who face hard times. Caira is one of those veterans who found herself in a tough spot last year.

Caira served in the United States Army from March 2008 to July 2009.

“I stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina,” Caira said. “I learned how to operate cranes and forklifts … it was pretty awesome.”

Following her time in the military, Caira married and started a family. Unfortunately, Caira experienced divorce in 2019. Facing the financial challenges that brings, she and her kids lost a lot in the midst of the divorce including clothing items. She even lost almost her home.

“I make too much money to receive SNAP benefits but I still needed help,” Caira said.

How HVAF’s Pantry Saved Caira & Family

But thankfully – HVAF was there to help. She said her friend at church told her about HVAF – Helping Veterans And Families – and how they provide services for veterans and their families. After coming to the veterans organization, the case managers helped Caira keep her home. And HVAF’s food, clothing, and hygiene pantry was instrumental in helping her recover and make sure her kids had what they needed.

“The staff went above and beyond for me, especially during the holidays,”  Caira said. “HVAF is definitely one of the best places out there to help veterans get what they need.”

Caira especially has a close connection with HVAF’s Community Center Specialist Katie Zackery. Katie’s family helped Caira and her family last year for Christmas, and they have stayed close since then.

“She’s an awesome person, she’s an extraordinary mom,” Katie said. “It hurts my heart to see a single young mother struggling … it’s amazing to me that she is able to keep her head up.”

Thank you for supporting HVAF’s Pantry

Katie said it means the world to her that she is able to serve veterans on a daily basis through HVAF’s Pantry.

“I have a passion for the pantry,” Katie said. “I have a passion for giving back.”

HVAF’s Pantry is not possible without your support, and we thank you for that. If you would like to help us ensure that we continue to keep the Pantry running in 2021 and beyond, please consider making a financial donation today.

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