SAN DIEGO - Five USS Makin Island (LHD 8) Sailors volunteered with Meals on Wheels to provide meals to senior citizens in San Diego, Feb. 22.
The event was part of a volunteer project meant to help elderly citizens or disabled veterans receive meals that they would otherwise struggle to obtain.
"It's heartwarming to come out to every week and help these people. Small things for us, like delivering food, makes a huge impact on them," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel) 2nd Class Jonathan Santos, the petty officer in charge of the day's event, who mentioned that many of the recipients of the program don't always have family available to bring them daily meals.
Sailors delivered hot and cold meals to eight seniors while also learning the importance of helping out the elderly community. Although Arlene Johnson, a 96-year-old Meals on Wheels recipient, has family in the area, Meals on Wheels is a convenience that improves her quality of life.
“I felt very happy seeing you all walk in,” said Arlene. “It was more food than I expected and the food is very tasty.”
The experience brought out previous volunteers and inspired new volunteers to return.
“For me volunteering gives me a sense of purpose,” said Airman Adam Waters. “It gives me great pride and purpose to help my fellow man and the community around me. This is my first time delivering for Meals on Wheels but I look forward to returning in the future.”
Makin Island Sailors have been delivering an average of 10 meals per week with the Meals on Wheels program since January 2018. To date, they have delivered over 550 meals to the local San Diego community.