It's all about giving back

  • Published
  • By Technical Sgt. Anthony Castro
  • 349th Public Affairs
Food, food and more food. That was what the 349th Air Mobility Wing chaplains found during the 2006 Holiday Canned Food drive round up. The annual event allows Reserve Airmen from Travis Air Force Base to provide canned goods for those less fortunate.

"We do this for the HEATHER (Homeless Emergency Assistance Transitional Housing Employment Resources) House," said Chaplain (Capt.) Herbert Hodde, III, the 349th AMW Humanitarian Project leader for the 2006 food drive. "It's a way of giving back to those going through a difficult time."

A team of volunteers spent several hours stopping by base squadrons collecting barrel after barrel of canned goods to be used by residence at HEATHER House. The Fairfield facility assists families and single women by providing temporary food, shelter and helping them to get back on their feet.

"It's a good program. We are helping those in need," said Staff Sgt. Ceasar Perez, a volunteer from the 82nd Aerial Port Squadron. Sergeant Perez added, "It's that time of season where we are helping others so it feels good to do my part."

The large level of donations didn't just come from those who live in the local area. Fellow volunteer, Master Sgt. Thomas Waldsmith from the 82nd Aerial Port Squadron flies to Travis from his home in Tucson, Ariz. to perform his duty. "I don't get as many opportunities to give back to the local community here. I'm not here during the week so it's nice when we are here to do something for the people outside the base."

With the truck nearly full with donated canned food from members of Team Travis, the chaplains and their volunteers dropped of the generous load to HEATHER House. When they arrived they found residents eagerly waiting to help them bring in the goods.

"Travis has really stepped up to the plate. We serve about 200 clients a year. This means I don't have to spend as much money on food. I can put that money towards staff." explained Linda Mahoney, HEATHER House Executive Director.

With more than 2,500 pounds of food donated, Chaplain Hodde acknowledges the 349th AMW and Team Travis had another great year of supporting the local community. "We collected a lot of food. It amazes me how generous people are. This will definitely help those less fortunate during the holiday season and beyond."