Lawton Food Bank Sending Out Food To Soldiers & Families Amidst Government Shut Down

While the government shutdown continues, funding for soldiers and their families has come to a halt. Usually, Fort Sill helps Lawton's community by visiting Lawton businesses and spending their money here. But this time, it's Lawton's turn to step up for the people who serve our country continuously.

On Wednesday, October 15, the Lawton Food Bank is hosting a food distribution specifically for any and all active duty service members and their dependents. This includes soldiers of any rank and their families.

They're reaching out to the Lawton community to bring in donations and/or volunteers during the event. Here's what you can do to help our neighbors on Fort Sill.

How does the distribution work?

If soldiers are not paid on October 15, the Lawton Food Bank will be opening its doors and handing out food for them and their families from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. "All soldiers, regardless of rank, will be eligible for this program," they wrote on their Facebook page.

READ MORE: What Happens When An Elk Decides They Don't Want To Leave?

Any active duty soldiers and family members affected by the shutdown, including spouses, can come during this time to get the resources. They do not need a separate hour or time slot to visit. This also includes federal employees, as well.

Since this event is heavily dependent on what happens between now and Oct. 15, they are not requiring pre-registration beforehand. Instead, they are asking local Lawtonians and everyone who supports our nation's military to donate items to help as many people as possible.

What items can you donate for the special food distribution?

You can never go wrong with the typical non-perishable foods that can be shelved. But, if you're looking for a specific list, then you can donate the following items:

• Canned fruits and vegetables
• Pasta
• Canned Beans
• Juices
• Peanut Butter
• Jelly

They are also asking for resources that, to be frank, never stop getting used - even if the money stops coming in. Things such as:

• Diapers
• Baby Wipes

Please make sure that donations are unopened and not expired. And, although we love our home-cooked meals in Oklahoma, unfortunately, the Food Bank cannot distribute homemade goods.

If you're considering purchasing other items, you may want to reach out to the Food Bank before doing so to make sure that they will take them in.

How else can you help?

The Food Bank knows this event could be a big one, and they need all the extra hands that can get to make it successful. They still need volunteers to help load food, check in the people receiving the food, and provide additional support.

You can volunteer your time by following the link here.

Fort Sill has literally always been by our side, Lawton. Let's return the favor.