TMCA Funds Boost Food Distribution Program For Veterans, Military Families

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – The Franklin County Commissioners today approved an agreement between Franklin County Veterans Affairs and Tuscarora Managed Care Alliance (TMCA) that will expand the county’s ability to feed those in need through the Franklin County MilitaryShare program.

Each month, Franklin County MilitaryShare provides fresh, nutritious food to Franklin County households with at least one member who has served or is serving in the armed forces. The program is funded solely through grants and community donations and provides food at no cost to participants.

In 2023, TMCA will contribute $20,000 to cover the costs of Medicaid-eligible veterans or Medicaid-eligible members of their households who are participating in the food distribution program. The addition of the TMCA funds will pay for up to 2,000 food packages and will allow Franklin County Veterans Affairs to stretch program dollars further to reach additional military families in need as demand for the program continues to grow each month.

“It’s incredible to see how demand for this program has grown since its inception in May,” said Franklin County Commissioner Chairman Dave Keller. “Nine months into the program, Franklin County MilitaryShare now serves over 1,000 individuals each month. With the addition of this TMCA funding, our Veterans Affairs team will have the ability to serve even more households in need.”

Franklin County MilitaryShare distribution occurs on the first Thursday and second Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon at 425 Franklin Farm Lane, Chambersburg. While items can vary, families participating in Franklin County MilitaryShare can anticipate receiving fresh produce, milk, eggs, cheese and a box of pantry staples such as soup, pasta, sauce and cereal. Other items like meat, fish and poultry may also be included when available. The program is a drive-through type of event and volunteers from local service clubs, nonprofits and businesses load boxes of food into each participant’s car.

To be eligible for Franklin County MilitaryShare, participants must provide proof of military service as well as pre-register to ensure organizers order the correct amount of food for distribution. Individuals and families may also receive other food assistance.

For more information, or to register for Franklin County MilitaryShare, contact John McPaul, Franklin County Office of Veterans Affairs community outreach coordinator, at 717-263-4326 or jpmcpaul@franklincountypa.gov.

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