Through their Christmas Canned Food Drive, the Manta Ray Battalion cadets have donated non-perishable food items to Karidat, a church-based charitable organization.
ON Dec. 18, 2024, the Manta Ray Battalion cadets and their JROTC instructor were again spreading holiday cheer with their annual Christmas Canned Food Drive. This initiative, aimed at supporting local needy families, has become a beloved tradition in the community. Cadets collected non-perishable food items throughout November and December, setting an ambitious goal to gather cans of food. The drive also encouraged donations from the cadets and families.
The Manta Ray Battalion Cadets put in effort to ensure that the food they collected provided nourishment and spread holiday cheer. After sorting and organizing the canned food, the cadets decorated festive boxes with bright colors and holiday designs. These specially decorated boxes were then filled with the donated canned food. Once the boxes were ready, Mr. Luis, Mr. Mario, and Mr. Soto from Karidat picked up the canned goods.
The cadets’ hard work organizing the food and adding a personal touch through the decorated boxes was a meaningful gesture highlighting the true spirit of giving and the most wonderful time of the year.
“The Manta Ray Battalion would like to thank Mr. Luis, Mr. Mario, and Mr. Soto for visiting the JROTC building to pick up the canned foods and bring them back to Karidat. I would also like to thank the cadets who worked hard to make this canned food drive happen. I appreciate every single one of them. Thank you to those who donated canned goods; even though we couldn’t donate a lot, I hope it helps enough,” said C/CPT Shanna Villaluz.
“The canned food drive was a fun and rewarding experience. It was great to see everyone coming together and actively participating, creating a strong sense of community. Most importantly, it felt fulfilling to know that our efforts made a difference in helping people in need,” said C/CPT Bradley Barce.
“I’m so glad we could participate in the canned food drive this year and give to those who don’t have much for the holidays,” said C/CPT Ashley Villagomez.
“In my opinion, the best part about the canned food drive is getting together as a battalion and donating food to those in need, especially during Christmas. It brings everyone together and makes a positive impact,” said C/CPT Miyiel Baculod.
