UTICA, N.Y. – A local organization continues toward their mission of serving veterans, even during the pandemic.   

Feed Our Vets in Utica is a food pantry, helping feed vets in need. In light of the pandemic, pantry is taking some extra precautions to protect volunteers and veterans including taking temperatures, sanitizing surfaces, and making sure everyone is wearing a mask.

The pantry is back open for people to come inside and get their goods but as the pandemic continues on, organizers are struggling to keep up with demands.

"We go through, average, 40,000 pounds of food a month out of this pantry, especially with the holidays coming up, we need non-perishable food items," said the pantry’s Executive Director Richard Synek.

The organization is also helping veterans from beyond the Mohawk Valley. They have two additional pantries and are sending gift cards to vets and active duty service members in 39 states.