Navy Region Northwest Reserve Component Command (NAVREG NW RCC) Sailors delivered 2,073 pounds of food to the Volunteers of America Western Washington Everett food bank, Dec. 21, to help families in the community during this holiday season.

The food drive began Nov. 2, as a friendly competition between command departments, to win the annual “Golden Can Award.”

“Within the Navy, giving back to the local community through community service and volunteering are things the Navy values,” said Capt. Gary Hetzel, Commander NAVREG NW RCC. “This is just one way that NAVREG NW RCC can accomplish those values.”

The command tallied more than 3,000 non-perishable food items at the end of the competition, with the command services department making the biggest contribution and winning the coveted “Golden Can Award”.

“I like donating because I enjoy giving my time and resources to ensure others are as fortunate as me,” said Personnel Specialist 1st Class Raymond Rollon, NAVREG NW RCC canned food drive coordinator.

Kathleen Dale, Volunteers of America (VOA), Everett Food Bank outreach coordinator said the average canned food drive brings in about 500 canned goods.

“This is a big donation, definitely in the top 10 percent of food drives held this year for Volunteers of America,” said Dale.

It’s the 6th year NAVREG NW RCC held the canned food drive, with each year’s donations steadily increasing.

“It’s great that we gave more than last year and knowing that I helped contribute makes it awesome,” said Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Karinagrace Shouldice, NAVREG NW RCC staff.

Nichole Prater, VOA, Everett Food Bank, development manager said that one-half pound of food is equal to one meal.

“I’m humbled by their contributions,” said Prater. “The Military is already a selfless group by serving their country.”

The command also decorated an Angel Tree holding ornaments inscribed with the names of children and their wish lists.

Sailors could choose an ornament from the tree and then purchased a gift for the child. 

“It makes me proud that fellow Sailors are willing to take time out to collect and give to others in the community who may need a little more during this holiday season,” said Hetzel.

All of the gifts were delivered to VOA along with the collected food items and will be distributed to the local community during this Holiday Season.

“We love the Navy and appreciate their support,” said Dale. “We know if we have a project that we need help on, we can count on them to come through for us.