The flight deck of the USS Midway Museum will transform into a hub of community spirit on Wednesday as more than 100 volunteers gather to support San Diego’s newest military families.
In partnership with Target and the Midway, Blue Star Families is hosting a special “Restock Your Pantry” event, where volunteers will assemble 650 pantry kits filled with food essentials. The kits are designed to help families who have recently relocated to San Diego, many of whom face unexpected costs and challenges after moving.
The event marks the kickoff of Blue Star Welcome Week, a nationwide initiative featuring more than 250 events that support the 600,000 military families who relocate every year. Organizers say the Midway event highlights how San Diego steps up to embrace the country’s largest concentration of military families.
“This is more than just restocking shelves—it’s about showing families that they’re not alone when they move here,” said organizers with Blue Star Families, which was founded in 2009 to empower military families through programs that provide economic resources, community connections, and caregiver support.
Target is playing a big role in the day’s efforts, with many local employees volunteering alongside community members. Several surprises are also planned, including an appearance by Target’s Bullseye the Dog and a cupcake celebration in honor of the Navy’s 250th birthday, according to a news release.
The event will also recognize a Coast Guard spouse and mother of two who recently relocated to San Diego after six deployments and three cross-country moves. Despite her own challenges, she has remained dedicated to helping others and will be honored during the celebration.
San Diego welcomes thousands of military families each year, and events like this one provide much-needed support as they settle into new homes and communities.
Visuals on the Midway will include volunteers assembling pantry kits, families and civic leaders joining together, and a patriotic celebration honoring the service of military families.
For more information, contact David Koontz at dkoontz@midway.org.
