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Combating Hunger in Mississippi: State Guard and Food Network’s Joint Effort Yields Massive Donations

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SDF News

In a remarkable display of community spirit, the Mississippi State Guard (State Defense Force) joined forces with the Mississippi Food Network and WAPT 16 for their 12th Annual Turkey Drive, showcasing an extraordinary commitment to combatting food insecurity. On November 16th, 2023, members of the 115th Military Police Company and the Division Headquarters Company, entirely on a volunteer basis, were stationed at four Kroger locations in the Jackson-Metro area. Their efforts culminated in the collection of 1,109 turkeys and $12,288 in donations. This tremendous effort will significantly impact the fight against hunger in Mississippi, where an astonishing one in six residents faces food scarcity. Notably, every dollar collected can provide six meals, addressing a critical need in a state where hunger is alarmingly prevalent, especially among children.

This initiative is a shining example of how State Defense Forces across the nation are stepping up to support their local communities. Similar to the Mississippi State Guard’s efforts, the Texas State Guard organizes the Young Heroes of the Guard Toy Drive, a heartwarming initiative dedicated to collecting toys for children in need across Texas. These acts of service demonstrate the profound impact that State Defense Forces can have beyond their traditional roles, extending their commitment to community welfare through charity events. Their dedication to serving and uplifting their communities is a source of pride and inspiration, embodying the true spirit of service and compassion.

On November 16th, 2023, the Mississippi State Guard took part in the 12th Annual Mississippi Food Network-WAPT 16 Turkey Drive in a 100% volunteer capacity.
The Mississippi State Guard had great participants from the 115th Military Police Company and the Division Headquarters Company. Volunteer guardsmen and women were stationed at four separate Kroger locations around the Jackson-Metro area. All the volunteer members aided in the collection of 1,109 turkeys and $12,288 for charity. All of which will used to fight food insecurity in Mississippi where one dollar can produce six meals.
According to MFN (MS Food Network), “Almost one in six Mississippians — about 480,600 people — don’t have enough to eat. More than one in five children (18.8%) go to bed hungry most nights. Stomachs are growling all over the state. Hunger is a problem all across America. But in Mississippi, it’s practically an epidemic.”
During the Thanksgiving season, members of the Mississippi State Guard truly did their best to spread the spirit of the holiday. We are thankful for our fellow Mississippians whom it is our great pleasure to serve and we take pride in helping in any way possible.
( Jointly written and edited by Capt. William Turner and 1st Lt. Mike Brown )

Source: Mississippi State Guard

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