AFA in Action: Steele Chapter Supports New Food Pantry

By Bob Hill

The Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (JBAB) Food Pantry celebrated its first year of serving military-connected families throughout the National Capital Region. Sponsored by the JBAB Top 3 Council and supported by the D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter of the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA), volunteers, donors, and community partners, the pantry has become a vital resource for Airmen, Guardians, service members, federal employees, and their families.

“The Air & Space Forces Association exists to advocate, educate, and support,” said Steele Chapter President Darian “DJ” Padilla. “Supporting the JBAB Food Pantry is one of the most meaningful ways we can fulfill that mission. By helping military families during challenging times, we strengthen readiness, resilience, and the sense of community that makes our Air Force and Space Force stronger.”

During its first year, the pantry recorded more than 1,601 visits and expanded its reach through monthly Capital Area Food Bank Mobile Markets. Together, these efforts distributed more than 64,000 pounds of food, helping military-connected families cope with financial hardship, and periods of federal pay uncertainty.

The Steele Chapter has been the pantry’s largest organizational supporter. Through grants from United Forces & Families program and matching chapter contributions, the chapter provided $6,000 in direct financial support during the pantry’s first year. Chapter members also donated hundreds of pounds of food, commissary gift cards, and additional financial contributions to help keep pantry shelves stocked. The partnership reflects AFA’s commitment to supporting Airmen, Guardians, and their families through local initiatives that directly strengthen quality of life and mission readiness.

The pantry proved especially valuable during the fall 2025 federal government funding shutdown and the spring 2026 Department of Homeland Security funding lapse.

Megan Rowley, pantry volunteer and Steele Chapter vice president military family matters, reflected on the pantry’s first year of service.

“What began as advocacy around an observed need became a reality because of dedicated partners, volunteers, and leaders willing to listen and act. This year was only possible because of people like you. I am deeply grateful for all we have accomplished together and look forward to continuing this important work in the year ahead.”