First Sergeant’s Council donation keeps food pantry stocked

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Members of the First Sergeant's Council present a $500 donation to the Vandenberg Food Pantry at the Airman & Family Readiness Center here Tuesday, March 21, 2012. The food pantry is a volunteer run program providing grocery items at no cost to Vandenberg families in need. (U.S. Air Force photo/Michael Peterson)

Published March 22, 2012
By Michael Peterson
30th Space Wing Public Affairs

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Members of the First Sergeant's Council presented the Airman & Family Readiness Center with a $500 donation for the Vandenberg Food Pantry program here March 20.

The Vandenberg Food Pantry, run by volunteers and located in the A&FRC, has been serving Vandenberg families in need since 1996.

"Between 15 and 30 Vandenberg families receive approximately $180 in groceries during scheduled monthly appointments," said Jaime Lopez, A&FRC director. "Families can receive fresh produce, toiletries, canned and boxed food, and occasionally frozen meat as available."

By temporarily providing grocery items at no cost, the food pantry allows participating families to redirect their money toward reducing debt and obtaining overall financial health.

"First sergeants take care of mission, Airmen and family," said Master Sgt. Shari Colquhoun, 30th Civil Engineer Squadron first sergeant. "The food pantry is key to helping us take care of our families who may be experiencing financial distress."

"The Vandenberg Food Pantry gladly accepts food, monetary donations, as well as volunteers to assist with food drives and restocking," said Lopez.

Vandenberg families in need can call the A&FRC to join the program or can talk to a first sergeant, supervisor or chaplain for a referral.

For more information about the program, call the A&FRC at 606-0039.