HSL-42 Delivers Backpacks to Hubbard House

By Yeoman Petty Officer 3rd Class Tamara Vaughn

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- The Multi Cultural Committee of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42, provided more than 200 backpacks full of school supplies for needy children at the Hubbard House in Jacksonville, Fla., Aug.18.

"This was a good opportunity for the Navy to help the community, namely the unfortunate kids who can't afford a nice backpack and school supplies," said Aviation Electrician's Mate (AW) Chief Petty Officer Dalon Barksdale. "It makes us look good and shows that we are a big part of the community, too."

Thirteen Sailors delivered the backpacks full of supplies to children staying at the domestic violence shelter, just in time for Duval County school openings on, Aug. 22. The shelter has approximately 90 victims who keep their children in the shelter with them. The Hubbard House provides services to more than 5,000 victims a year.

"When I heard about the build-a-backpack operation, I knew we could make a big difference in the community," said Logistics Specialist Petty Officer 3rd Class Monika Rolle. "I am proud of the way the command responded. It is unbelievable how we came together and got things accomplished. We built 201 backpacks in such a short amount of time."

"My junior people took the lead on this drive, all I did was buy a few backpacks and they did the rest," said Logistics Specialist Petty Officer 1st Class (AW/SW) Andy Mucciarone. "Many of the people here didn't come from a wealthy family so this means a lot to them."

HSL- 42 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Brad Collins, Executive Officer Cmdr. Edward Anderson, and Command Master Chief (AW/SW) Terrence Mitchell challenged each work center, detachment, division and department to a competition during the build-a-bag operation. The senior leaders in the chain of command put a fun twist into helping the community by promising a pizza lunch to the center providing the most backpacks. The winning group was the administration office, building more than 40 backpacks.

"It was a tremendous gift," said Ellen Siler, chief executive officer for the Hubbard House. "We are not a government funded organization so nothing is given to us. We are thrilled to get these supplies as most of the children who come here have only the clothes on their back. For all of the children here, who have very little, receiving something brand new is absolutely wonderful."