CSA program’s fresh fruits, vegetables help disabled veteran

September 6, 2022

John spent his working life in military careers, first as a U.S. Navy submariner during the Cold War, and later in the National Guard in Operation Desert Storm. Now, this Bear resident is a disabled veteran; much of his time is dedicated to getting treatment for medical-related issues and dental problems attributed to his service.

A friend told John and his wife how the Food Bank of Delaware helps state residents dealing with food insecurity, so the couple visited a drive-through mobile pantry early this year at Delaware Technical Community College’s Stanton Campus. John and his wife soon realized picking up a box of food at the Food Bank’s Newark site on Lake Drive was actually more convenient.

John then registered online for a new – and relatively small program – CSA [Community Supported Agriculture] boxes that contain fresh fruits and vegetables, mainly those grown at the Food Bank’s Newark campus.

“We love the corn, the fresh vegetables, picking up different things each week,” he said.

This 22-week program, explained Community Fam Coordinator John O’Connor, received somewhat limited funding, so those interested were asked to sign up online. “It’s a first-come, first-serve basis… People pickup from both Milford and Newark and they {boxes]are delivered through Amazon,” he said.

John – one of our veterans – says he and his wife enjoy the meals she prepares using fresh produce – – some of which is grown on the Food Bank’s five-acre farm in Newark.

“You guys really help us out; we don’t throw anything away. It also keeps us out of stores. We don’t go out much. We are so appreciative; you really supplement our needs,” he said.

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