A homegrown Illinois nonprofit is making a national impact by feeding veterans who face food insecurity—one farm-fresh meal at a time.
Michelle Keller, senior director of Farm to Veteran, joined Amy Jacobson and Charles Thomas on Chicago’s Morning Answer to share how the Manhattan, Illinois-based organization has quietly grown into a powerhouse of support for struggling veterans across nine states.
Launched in 2020 by entrepreneur Kevin Van Akran, the organization began as a traditional farm before transforming into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to serving veterans. The shift happened during the height of the pandemic, with a mission to donate everything the farm produced—from eggs and produce to pork and beef—to veterans in need.
In its first year, the organization provided 11,000 meals. Last year, that number soared to 183,000, and by the end of this month, Farm to Veteran expects to cross the 400,000 meal mark.
“We’re providing high-quality, perishable food—often better than organic,” Keller explained. “Some of our beef is American Wagyu, which many of the veterans we serve would never be able to afford otherwise.”
Farm to Veteran doesn’t operate like a food pantry. Instead, they partner with veterans’ assistance commissions, VA homes, and local support organizations that already have systems in place to verify need and ensure distribution.
Keller shared the moving story of one Vietnam-era veteran who received eggs from the organization—and realized he didn’t even know how to cook one. “He went from his parents’ house to the military to being married. Now widowed, he had to learn to cook for himself for the first time in his life,” she said. “He told us he didn’t just get a meal—he gained a skill and a bit of confidence.”
Currently operating on 60 acres in Manhattan, the organization has expanded its reach by partnering with small and midsize farmers across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Iowa, Colorado, Washington, Texas, and Florida. Farm to Veteran purchases food at market rate from these farmers, supporting local agriculture while feeding those who served.
Despite its impact, the nonprofit receives no federal funding and relies on private donations to continue its mission. “We’re being asked to do more,” Keller said. “With other funding sources drying up, more people are turning to us.”
Each $5 donation helps provide a fresh, nutritious meal to a veteran. The organization also supplies freezers and refrigerators to partner sites to help preserve perishable goods.
Co-host Charles Thomas noted the pride and independence often held by the veteran community may be contributing to the high rates of food insecurity. Keller agreed, citing reluctance to ask for help, coupled with challenges like PTSD, mental health struggles, and the difficulties of transitioning to civilian life.
“Many veterans don’t reach out until it’s too late,” she said.
Jacobson and Thomas reflected on the poor treatment of Vietnam veterans in particular, a group often forgotten despite their sacrifices. “They weren’t welcomed home,” Jacobson said. “We owe them so much more than what they got.”
Keller emphasized that Farm to Veteran was created specifically to honor that debt. “We’re just trying to give back to those who gave everything for us.”
To support the mission, donations can be made at www.farmtoveteran.com.