Sailors assigned to the amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24) packaged food for Hampton Roads families during a community relations (COMREL) project at the Virginia Peninsula Food Bank in Hampton, Va. August 11, 2017.

During the COMREL 12 Sailors from Arlington packaged over 300 bags of food totaling over 3,600 pounds during the three-hour event.

"Arlington's religious support team organized the event to help further positive community relations with the ship's crew and the surrounding area," said Lieutenant Jason Ulven, Arlington's chaplain. "We find these kinds of things to do because people on the ship are looking for meaningful opportunities to make a difference."

The Virginia Peninsula Food Bank distributes food through collaborative efforts to minimize hunger, promote nutrition and encourage self-reliance through education.

"The group was energetic and exhibited good teamwork," said Maria Quigley, the volunteer coordinator for the Virginia Peninsula Food Bank. "They exuded a nice, positive attitude and the food bank is grateful for their service."

The volunteers from Arlington said they felt a sense of fulfillment from giving their time toward a worthy cause.

"It made me feel like I was using my time to help further something larger than myself," said Religious Programs Specialist Seaman Michael Dube, one of the crewmembers from Arlington that attended the event. "I really look forward to the next opportunity to get out and help people.

Arlington's Religious Support Team's next volunteer function is at the Hope House thrift store. Hope House is an in-home assisted living service for adults with learning and developmental disabilities.

Arlington is currently inport in Norfolk for a continuing maintenance availability.



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