MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Defense teamed up to help families all over the country receive food assistance in their time of need.
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point is currently participating in a food drive that has helped feed thousands of families in the surrounding counties for six years through the Feds Feed Families campaign.
“(This campaign) is important not only to the DoD and the Marine Corps, but to those local families who are in need as well,” said Gunnery Sgt. Addam Baker, the postal chief for the Cherry Point Post Office. “The campaign is yet another example of how MCAS Cherry Point demonstrates gratitude and reaffirms the relationship between the air station and the local community.”
Feds Feed Families is a voluntary effort supported by federal employees who donate non-perishable food items to designated locations for distribution to local food banks. The campaign began in June and continues throughout August.
During this year’s campaign, requested items include canned fruits and vegetables, multigrain cereals and personal hygiene items.
Around the installation, there are designated drop-off boxes marked with “Feds Feed Families” flyers for individuals wanting to donate. Cherry Point currently has nine drop off locations including Miller’s Landing, the Cherry Tree House and the commissary.
“Last year the postal Marines set up collection points in high traffic areas around the air station. Those collection points were then picked up weekly and taken to the commissary where they were weighed and documented,” said Baker. “This year, the food bank is going to be coming on base and picking up the items directly from the consolidation point, which will be the commissary.”
Cherry Point patrons contributed more than 4,500 pounds of food last year.
Military members and civilians act as key participants in the campaign, said Baker.
“It’s always better to give than to receive,” said Baker.
As of July 1, more than 117,500 pounds of food have been donated so far from 19 military installations within the U.S.
Running a successful campaign requires a team effort, and leadership support is critical, according to a memorandum released by the office of the Deputy Secretary of Defense. Feds Feed Families allows federal employees to showcase how caring and giving they are, and demonstrate their commitment to helping people in need.
To learn more about Feds Feed Families contact the Cherry Point Commissary.