SYP members volunteer at soup kitchen

On Saturday, Aug. 8, members of the Saipan Young Professionals volunteered for the Salvation Army’s soup kitchen. About 20 SYP members and their friends and family worked together to prepare and serve free hot meals to homeless families and those affected by the recent Super Typhoon Soudelor. Free meals were prepared and served at their venue in San Antonio.

SYP members and Salvation Army volunteers prepared the meals, served dine-in families, provided water and even held signs to encourage passersby to stop by. A few community members dropped by to donate personal food items.

“During this time of need, we’re glad to work alongside the Salvation Army to provide meals to families, especially those with young children,” said SYP chair Mable Ayuyu. “I’m humbled to be a part of the process and applaud the Salvation Army and members of the community that volunteer to help in any way they can.”

Salvation Army’s Wayne Gillespie and SYP members have their picture taken. (Contributed Photo)

“To see this amount of people stop by to have lunch is a testament to how important organizations like the Salvation Army are to our community,” added Ayuyu.

When asked about her experience participating in this event, SYP member Jiana Camacho said, “This was a great experience to assist the community. We also have food for our Tinian and Rota liaisons, which we will drop to them as well.” 

SYP co-chair Bobby Cruz commented that “today was a moving experience because it makes you appreciate what you have and the many blessings God has given you. When you see people who are in need of basic necessities like water and food, it teaches you to appreciate what you have.”

When asked why they chose to volunteer for the soup kitchen, Ayuyu stated that there is a great need to provide direct assistance to those most affected by the typhoon. “As a committee of the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, an important aspect of what we do is to give back to the community. The soup kitchen allows us to do just that,” she said. 

The Salvation Army’s Soup Kitchen is open daily from 12pm to 4pm until further notice. For more information on any upcoming programs or events under the Saipan Young Professionals Committee or the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, feel free to contact the Chamber office at 234-7150 or visit www.saipanchamber.com or our Facebook page. Our office is located at Suite 315, 3rd floor of Marianas Business Plaza in Susupe. (SCC)