10/20/2026
LOCAL FOOD DRIVE TO HELP AREA VETERANS AND PETS AHEAD OF VETERANS DAY
Southern Illinois residents can support local military veterans and their pets ahead of Veterans Day on Saturday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations of nonperishable food, personal care products, pet food and cat litter can be dropped off at Kroger stores in Marion, Carbondale and Herrin, as well as Walmart in Murphysboro.
All collected donations will go directly to the Food Pantry at the Marion U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which assists veterans throughout Southern Illinois.
“For many veterans, pets are far more than companions—they are sources of comfort, connection, and unconditional love,” said Malia Nix, Executive Director at This Able Veteran. disorder (PTSD). “Keeping those animals fed is one less worry during difficult times. A bag of pet food or a few essential household items may seem like a small gesture, but together, these donations make a meaningful difference.”
We are requesting the following high-priority items:
• Food items: Canned meats, canned vegetables, boxed cereal, pasta, soup, rice, peanut butter, jelly, and easy-open or pop-top canned goods.
• Personal care: Deodorant, disposable razors, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, and conditioner.
•Pet supplies: Dry food for puppies, dogs, kittens, and adult cats, as well as cat litter. For veterans who rely on their pets for companionship and emotional support, keeping those animals fed is one less worry during difficult times. A bag of pet food or a few essential household items may seem like a small gesture, but together, these donations can make a meaningful difference.
Detailed lists of suggested donations will be available to shoppers at each collection site on the day of the event.
