JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas –
Sailors assigned to Navy Recruiting District San Antonio at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston journeyed to the San Antonio Food Bank Sept. 27 to provide community service through the Navy’s Community Relations Program.
The team, joined by other volunteer organizations, sorted through 19,572 pounds of food, which were reorganized into 15,657 meals for needy families.
According to Petty Officer 2nd Class Angelica Brown, NRD-SA’s community service coordinator, performing community service shows that Sailors care about the community they live in.
“It’s important for us to help those in need,” Brown said. “It’s not just about recruiting; being here matters.”
Prior to commencing the work, the volunteers received a detailed briefing by Mario Sanchez, San Antonio Food Bank volunteer coordinator.
“Without volunteers, the food bank would not be able to distribute food,” Sanchez said. “We are running low on donations, so having companies and individuals donate as well as volunteer is extremely important.”
According to Sanchez, members of the military frequently volunteer at the food bank, mostly during their off-duty hours.
The Navy Community Relations Program fosters community service, creates and sustains partnerships with the public at home and abroad, as well as increasing public awareness and understanding of America’s Navy.
“Providing community service is one of many elements for well-roundedness and development of our Sailors,” said Cmdr. Nicholas Gamiz, NRD-SA commanding officer. “Having our Sailors volunteer in pride gear or in uniform demonstrates to the community our pride in giving back.”
NRD-SA’s area of responsibility includes more than 34 Navy Recruiting Stations and Navy Officer Recruiting Stations spread throughout 144,000 square miles of Central and South Texas territory.