Sailors spent a selfless day improving their community by helping serve dinner to the homeless at the Salvation Army Center for Worship in Everett, Aug. 23.

“Volunteering for the local Salvation Army helps me give back to the community,” said Seaman Berthena Meno, USCGC Polar Sea (WAGB 11). “Even if it’s just a small contribution, it’s worth it to help who I can.”

For three hours, volunteers from Naval Station Everett and the Everett community helped prepare and serve food to over 150 people in need. 

“I love helping people, and being able to make a difference,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Fuels Airman Corinna Bessenbacher, USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72).

The meal began with a quick sermon and prayer. People then lined up to be served their choice of foods including sandwiches, fruits, and donuts for dessert. While everyone was eating, there was a raffle for two baskets containing donated gifts of toiletry items and other helpful essentials. After the meal, the volunteers helped clean-up by washing all of the dishes and putting away tables and chairs.

“We have a staff of 13 that feed about 3,000 people a month. We are always needing volunteers, so we coordinate closely with volunteer and community programs,” said Salvation Army employee Jason Detmer. “It’s amazing to see these Sailors help out and volunteer their time so often.”

Along with the fellowship meals that are offered three times a week, the Salvation Army Center for Worship also holds Sunday holiness meetings and offers other basic social services such as housing programs.

To volunteer for a Liberty Northwest Salvation Army trip, sign-up at the Commons at Naval Station Everett, or call (425) 304-3577.