Feed the Force: Mercy Chefs Supports Military and Federal Families
On Wednesday, Mercy Chefs, a nonprofit disaster relief organization, provided crucial food assistance to hundreds of families in Norfolk, Virginia. The group distributed 500 boxes of meals to furloughed government employees and military families at Naval Station Norfolk.
Relief Amid Government Shutdown
This effort is part of Mercy Chefs’ “Feed the Force” initiative, which aims to prevent hunger among service members and government workers affected by the ongoing government shutdown.
Voices from the Line
Henry Graham, a supervisor at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard and resident of Chesapeake, spoke about the urgent need for assistance.
“Being a government employee and being furloughed, people really need relief, really need help,” Graham said. “Nobody probably thought this shutdown was going to last this long, but it’s lasting, and people are really suffering.”
As an essential worker, Graham noted this is his second furlough experience, highlighting the growing hardship for many families.
Continued Support Planned
Ann LeBlanc, president and co-founder of Mercy Chefs, reported that all 500 meal boxes were claimed quickly due to high demand.
“And then we have 200 additional, and then we’re back on Nov. 21 in the same spot,” LeBlanc said. “Even if the government shutdown is over by then, at this time of the holidays, these families need more support to catch up, and we’ll be honored to come alongside them.”
Mercy Chefs continues its commitment to helping families endure the shutdown effects during the holiday season.
Summary: Mercy Chefs delivers essential food aid to furloughed workers and military families in Norfolk, highlighting ongoing community needs amid the prolonged government shutdown.