Honoring Black Women Veterans

The program hosted a “Lunch and Learn” for God’s Love We Deliver staff to educate and raise awareness about Black Women Veterans, spotlighting significant historical moments and giving these stories a platform. The goal was to inform and foster understanding, encouraging growth through knowledge.

As part of the presentation, two interviews were conducted, one with our own Community Health Worker Liana Valcin, a Navy Veteran with 9 years of service, currently holding the rank of Petty Officer First Class, and First Sergeant Regina Rogers of the New Jersey Army National Guard, with 22 years of service. They discussed their military experiences, the challenges they faced as women of color in a male-dominated field, and the legacy they want to leave. Two women from different backgrounds but with similar experiences.

First Sergeant Rogers shared stories about her military background, including challenges as a woman of color in a male-dominated field, and her hopes for her legacy. She also discusses her family’s military history, including her father, grandfather, and uncles. She describes her service as simply “a check in the box.” Her first deployment in 2008-2009 shaped her view of the military, influencing her outlook and motivating her to continue her service. When asked if the military lifestyle was surprising, she replied that it wasn’t the lifestyle itself, but that reaching this point was the surprise. She explained, “Never having the desire to be a First Sergeant, it was kind of presented to me, and I went for it”. Her energy and passion exemplify her leadership style; she is dedicated to her soldiers’ success and embraces her responsibilities. Her statement, “I don’t think that this person who joined in 2004 would be a First Sergeant years later,” highlights growth and dedication.

The CONNECTED program aims to prioritize reducing hunger among Veterans, extending ser. We tailor meals and nutritional services to meet Veterans’ specific diagnoses and needs while also promoting their overall well-being through behavioral health education, skill development, and community-level programming designed for Veterans. Acknowledging the significance of Black History Month and the importance of celebrating American history through educational initiatives, we remain committed to serving in any way we can as we progress in our journey.

Since 1985, God’s Love We Deliver has supported many clients, emerging from a desire to uplift an overlooked community. Now, after 40 years, they serve a new group: Veterans. Paired with medically tailored meals and medical nutrition therapy, the CONNECTED Program provides behavioral health support to Veterans and caregivers. We saw a need and responded, building on Ganga Stone’s compassionate vision. Her legacy continues to positively impact vulnerable New Yorkers every day.

Thank you to our women Veterans we gratefully serve through the CONNECTED program and thank you to our community who make our mission a reality.