Army Veteran’s Nonprofit Provides Vital Support to Food-Insecure Veterans

In Brandywine, Maryland, Army veteran Peter Scott is making a significant impact on the lives of food-insecure veterans through his nonprofit organization, Fields4Valor. Established after Scott’s own struggles with PTSD and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, the initiative has already provided food assistance to over 500 veterans and their families.

Key Takeaways

Mission: Fields4Valor aims to alleviate food insecurity among veterans in the D.C. metropolitan area.
Background: Founded by Peter Scott, a former Army counterintelligence agent, after his own experiences with PTSD.
Community Impact: The nonprofit has served over 500 veterans, highlighting the growing issue of food insecurity among military families.

Scott’s journey began after he returned from deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq. Despite his military background, he found himself struggling with mental health issues and the realities of civilian life. After seeking help for his combat-related PTSD, he discovered that many fellow veterans were facing similar challenges, particularly regarding food security.

To address this pressing issue, Scott turned to farming. On a 7-acre plot of land, he cultivates a variety of crops, including rhubarb, kale, peppers, cucumbers, and lettuce. Additionally, he maintains beehives that produce honey, which has been affectionately referred to by veterans as "liquid gold."

Scott’s farm not only provides fresh produce but also serves as a community hub where veterans can come together, share their experiences, and receive support. Each week, veterans like Shara Simms, a disabled Air Force veteran, receive bags of groceries filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, helping to ease their financial burdens.

The Growing Need for Support

Statistics: According to the Military Family Advisory Network, 1 in 5 active-duty military and veteran families experience food insecurity, a number that continues to rise.
Volunteer Efforts: Approximately 300 volunteers have contributed to the farm this year, many of whom are sourced from local military installations.

Scott emphasizes the importance of community support in sustaining Fields4Valor. He relies on donations and the goodwill of volunteers to keep the operation running. Any surplus produce is sold at local markets, with proceeds reinvested into the farm to ensure its continued success.

A Path to Redemption

Scott’s motivation for founding Fields4Valor goes beyond just providing food. He seeks redemption for his past experiences in combat, feeling a moral obligation to give back to those who have served. He believes that initiatives like Fields4Valor are essential as long as there is a need for them.

In addition to addressing food insecurity, Scott’s farm fosters a sense of community among veterans, helping them to connect and support one another in their transitions to civilian life. The initiative serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and the ongoing challenges they face after returning home.

As Fields4Valor continues to grow, Scott remains committed to his mission of helping veterans in need. His story is a testament to the resilience of those who have served and the importance of community support in overcoming life’s challenges.