By Ben Cooper ‘16

Junior Chris Homon earns SSL hours by packing non-perishable foods at the Manna Food Center to distribute to impoverished families.

Manna Food Center, a local charity organization in Gaithersburg, offers students an opportunity to earn SSL hours by giving food to those who cannot afford it. Throughout each month, Manna gives students the chance to come into its warehouse where they can help pack boxes of food that will be sent to the needy.

While it seems like another average opportunity to earn a couple SSL hours, the box packing is fast-paced and efficient, and sometimes takes less than an hour. The quick pace makes it easy to get the job done, especially with help from other volunteers. Finishing such a large task so quickly also makes the job easier to appreciate, knowing that the hard work will help a family in need.

“I don’t see it as a chore. It feels good knowing your work is going to a good cause and can help a family out,” said junior Chris Homon, who volunteers monthly at Manna with his family.

Manna holds five “Family Packing Days” throughout the month where students and their families can sign up to fill boxes with non-perishable food items. It is recommended that volunteers can lift boxes weighing up to 25 pounds. Two SSL hours are received for an hour of work, making it an ideal opportunity to earn quick hours for those who are scrambling to finish their high school requirement.

Other opportunities to volunteer at Manna are available as well, including working in food drives and seasonal farmers markets. To participate in distributing the boxes of food to the needy, students are required to be at least 18 years of age. In order to sign up for a family packing day, an RSVP, which must include a phone number and the number of family members expected to attend, is required through Manna Food Center’s website.