The Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) initiated a can food drive for Feeding America, an organization that gathers food for those in need in the local communities.

To promote participation, America's triad, along with CSSAD, are sponsoring one full work day off for contributors who bring in ten or more cans. Sailors must write their last name and rate on each can and have a CSSAD member verify and sign to qualify.

"This is a San Diego-based foundation, so this food will be distributed out to anyone in need," said Ship's Serviceman 2nd Class Shanna Powell, CSADD president aboard America. "They have warehouses. It goes from there, and they put them in boxes to distribute them out to the community."

Powell, assigned to America's supply department, reached out to CSADD for support with the collection process. Reaching out enabled her to gather more food because of the organization's reach aboard the ship.

"CSADD is an organization that allows junior Sailors to help other junior Sailors, and can provide support in the community," said Powell. "Most people think the organization is just about alcohol, but it's not. It's just about us giving junior Sailors options. It's to prevent them from making bad decisions, as well as giving them the option to step up and do big things."

A collection box has been placed on the ship's quarterdeck to receive donations of canned foods, where it will remain until the completion of the food drive on Aug. 25. A list of the most-needed foods is posted on the collection box, including peanut butter, canned fish or white meat chicken, and whole grain oatmeal and cereals.

"I think that everybody has gone through a rough time or has seen somebody that might be in need, so that they can connect with this kind of situation," said Powell. "Any opportunity for us to help somebody; it's just a very simple way for us to reach out and help the community."

For more news from USS America (LHA 6), visit www.navy.mil/local/lha6/