SWANSEA, Ill. (First Alert 4) - As the government shutdown continues with no end in sight, a Metro East restaurant owner is expanding efforts to combat food insecurity among Scott Air Force Base personnel and the broader community.

John Michel, owner of Marco’s Express Restaurant in Swansea and a retired Air Force general, has a long-standing commitment to helping service members.

A year-and-half ago Michel created the “Currency of Caring” program to alleviate the financial strain on military families. He noted that 26% of active-duty military personnel across all services face food insecurity.

The initiative allows the public to purchase $8 wooden tokens, which are then distributed to struggling service members. These tokens can be redeemed for a full meal at Marco’s Express and dozens

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