The 2024 Day at the Capitol allowed hunger advocates to stand united and speak out against food insecurity in our state. Our work to end hunger and uplift our neighbors facing food insecurity is filled with complexities but is based on one simple, universal truth: everyone deserves access to nutritious food and the resources needed to thrive.
US Air Force veteran James Strauss gave his personal testimony of receiving food assistance and support from the Cavalier Care Center as a student at Bossier Community College.
Strauss says that asking for help was one of the hardest things he's ever done, but found he was met with respect and compassion from the Cavalier Care Center, a college pantry and resource center at Bossier Parish Community College. James' testimony rang true for for more than 200 hundred attendees at the Day at the Capitol comprised of food bank and food pantry staff, volunteers, community members, and other hunger relief advocates and organizations.
Raynatta Lockett, a military veteran and mother, also shared her experience receiving support from Second Harvest Food Bank.
Lockett emphasized the importance of state programs and organizations that help mothers provide for their children.
Thank you to everyone who attended, and a special thanks to our speakers, Pat R. Van Burkleo (Executive Director, Feeding Louisiana), Natalie Jayroe (President/CEO, Second Harvest Food Bank), Sandra Roberson (Director of the Cavalier Care Center, Bossier Parish Community College), James Strauss (Military veteran and student), Raynatta Lockett (Military veteran and mother), Rhonda Jackson (Director of No Kind Hungry Louisiana), Bill Ludwig (USDA).