Volunteers Pack MLK Day at Virginia Food Bank

Hundreds of volunteers packed the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia this MLK Day, filling every available slot to honor Dr. King's legacy through hands-on service. The response was so overwhelming that organizers ran out of spots weeks before the holiday.

At the Norfolk warehouse, volunteers tackled multiple programs that directly impact local families. They packed weekend meals for children, prepared fresh produce for mobile distributions, and sorted incoming food donations.

"These are groups that truly want to embody what it means to serve," said Jeremy Rodden, Director of Community Engagement. He noted that many of these volunteers show up year-round, but MLK Day gives them a special chance to highlight service as a community value.

The work couldn't be more needed right now. Even though the recent government shutdown ended, families across southeastern Virginia continue feeling the financial strain.

"We know that the effects of the government shutdown didn't just end when the shutdown ended," Rodden explained. "There are people fighting their way back from that."

The Ripple Effect

The food bank's volunteer program shows how one day of service creates lasting change. The meals packed this week will feed children on weekends when school lunches aren't available. The sorted donations will stock shelves for months to come.

"It takes a city, I wouldn't even say a village," Rodden said. "We couldn't do half of what we do here if we didn't have that number of volunteers."

The organization increased food distributions in January and February specifically to help families recovering from the shutdown. That extra support only happens because of community donors and dedicated volunteers.

The food bank already has its next major event planned for January 28 at the Virginia Beach Amphitheater, where they'll serve 2,000 families. Volunteer slots for year-round opportunities remain open for anyone inspired to continue Dr. King's mission of service beyond a single day.

One day of service reminds us that communities thrive when people show up for each other.