In keeping with its mission to be the ultimate resource guide for veterans, the Center for Veterans, Service Members and Families at the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) will be hosting a special “Nutrition and Wellbeing” on Tuesday, April 16th. A seminar was held.
The seminar was held in Quinlan Hammond Hall, home of the University Veterans Center. The event brought together a community of service members dedicated to positively impacting those facing food insecurity, with several state and local veterans organizations represented.
“The University of Southern Mississippi has always been known as a place where dreams come true because our staff, faculty, and friends believe above all in serving others,” said Jeff, Veterans Center Director.・Major General Hammond (U.S. Army veteran) said.
“This special opportunity to support Southern Mississippi veterans and their families, made possible through the generosity of the Bob Woodruff Foundation, will make a difference for those struggling with food insecurity.”
The contents of the seminar are as follows.
- Presentation about nutrition and healthy eating
- $250 Grocery Gift Card Free
- Nutritional cookbook gift
- More information on resources for veterans
- Information about veterans benefits
David “Red” Rayborn, Veterans Recognition Specialist at the USM Veterans Center, speaks with LaQuinta Griffin, workforce case manager at Oak Arbor, the home of Support Services for Veterans and Families (SSVF) in Hattiesburg. He and Interim Director Marika Baliko spearheaded the event. MS Balance of State Continuum of Care. He also serves as deputy director of Mississippi United to End Homelessness (MUTEH).
Rayborn emphasized that the seminar was an opportunity for the USM Center to reward the unparalleled sacrifices of military veterans.
“Everything we do for our veterans is never enough,” Rayborn said. “I personally feel that veterans are too taken for granted and too underserved. It’s one of my biggest regrets. I feel like in a way I’m doing a service right now by hosting events like this. I can’t thank the veterans enough. Without them, this country would be a very different place, and we should all be grateful.”
Mr. Barico praised the USM Veterans Center for hosting the event and noted that the MS Balance of State Continuum of Care’s commitment to ending veteran homelessness remains steadfast.
“We recognize the sacrifices made by our veterans who serve our country, and we are committed to ensuring they have access to safe and stable housing,” Barico said. “Through our collaborative efforts with organizations such as the Center for Veterans, Service Members, and Families, we can make meaningful progress in improving the lives of those who have served in the military. This event honors their service. It’s not just a celebration, it’s a reminder of the importance of community support and friendship.”
For more information about the Center for Veterans, Service Members and Families, call 601.266-8387 or visit https://www.usm.edu/military-veterans/index.php.
