By Becca Bolton
The River Food Pantry
Since 2023, The River Food Pantry has collaborated with St. Paul Lutheran Church to host Vets Connect, a relaxed monthly gathering that offers a free meal, speakers and a sense of community for veterans and their families. Vets Connect is led by The River’s Executive Director Rhonda Adams, who is a veteran herself.
“We wanted to help re-establish Vets Connect since it stopped during the pandemic,” Adams said. “We’re thrilled to once again gather local veterans and their families to eat, learn and connect with one another in an alcohol- and substance-free environment.”
Meetings are held at St. Paul Lutheran Church’s Community Room (2126 N. Sherman Ave.) on the last Tuesday of each month, with support from volunteers. Doors open at 4:45 pm. All veterans are invited and may bring a guest.
Each meeting begins with a meal provided by The River and is followed by a guest speaker presentation on a topic or opportunity relevant to veterans’ interests and needs. Past speakers have included Retired Major General Marcia Anderson, Fisher House Wisconsin Executive Director Steven Rose, and Wisconsin Veterans Museum Director Chris Kolakowski.
Following the evening’s presentation, attendees are welcome to stay for activities or conversation and to take home fresh produce and other miscellaneous items provided by The River. Any remaining food is donated to Dryhootch, a local nonprofit that serves veterans and their families, to share with other area veterans.
“Despite their sacrifices for our country, veterans are at a great risk of food insecurity and isolation. Through our partnerships and programs like Vets Connect, The River is working to help ensure local veterans and their families have enough food to eat and an opportunity to talk and share,” Adams said.
Vets Connect food and fresh produce are made possible by generous grant funding and community support. Learn more about upcoming meetings at riv
erfoodpantry.org/vets-connect.
