U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen help package food at the San Diego Food Bank. With the help of volunteers like the Midshipmen, the food bank is able to provide 22,000 meals per day to those in need. U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Daisy Abonza.

Established in 1977, the San Diego Food Bank provides food to people in need, advocates for the hungry and educates the public about hunger-related issues. Through a combination of government programs and partnerships with more than 260 San Diego County non-profit charities, the food bank acts as a central repository and distribution center for government and donated food.

‘‘This is a great program and I’m happy we had an opportunity to help out. Even though we are behind the scenes, it is still an important role,” said Midn. 1⁄C Gen Studer.

The volunteer opportunity was coordinated through the Midshipman Action Group (MAG), the Midshipman-run volunteer organization responsible for planning and coordinating thousands of hours of community service programs and projects.

The San Diego Food Bank distributes more than 10 million pounds of food annually to individuals, families and a network of non-profit organizations assisting people in need.

‘‘I believe this is our opportunity to help out the community even though we are not deployed. A lot of hard work and planning was put forth to make this happen,” said MAG President Midn. 1⁄C Andrew Radcliffe.