Caring and Sharing Program Donates More than 800 Pounds to the United Way

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- Caring and Sharing Program representatives at Naval Submarine Base New London donated more than 800 pounds of canned food items to the United Way of Southeastern Connecticut in Groton Jan. 11.

Program representatives continued their long-standing tradition of donating non-perishable food items not used in the annual prepared boxes provided to military members and their families during the recent holiday season. The Caring and Sharing Program began collecting food items last November.

Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/EXW) Jason Perry, assigned to Commander, Submarine Group 2, assists in overseeing the annual program and reflected on continuing the tradition of supporting the local community after the holiday season.

"Last year, we received so many donations that we are able to pay it forward to the communities of southeastern Connecticut," said Perry. "I think this is a great way to continue to say thank you to all those who donated to our program. Their donations essentially serve to also keep the 'neighbors helping neighbors' feeling alive, here in our local area."

Virginia Mason, president and CEO of United Way of Southeastern Connecticut reflected on the generosity of many individuals who together are providing assistance to those who depend on their organization.

"I think the need has never been greater than it is today, as is the need for donations," said Mason. "Here in New London county, one in six children is hungry at least part of the month, whether it is not getting the right food or unfortunately, not getting enough food. Your help makes a very big impact with the children and also helps the local community. We are very grateful and really appreciate your donation."

The Caring and Sharing program was launched in the early 1990s. Each year, Sailors began volunteering every November by collecting voluntary food and monetary donations for this annual drive, which will run through the middle of December.