Providing Sustenance, Safety, and Shelter
When Kicab Castaneda-Mendez retired he was searching for ways to give back — particularly ways that would help people who are struggling to meet their basic needs. Kicab was born in the U.S., while his parents and two siblings are from Guatemala. He and his wife Marta have traveled extensively and have witnessed some of the most extreme poverty and hunger all over the world.
So, when Kicab found the Food Bank, it seemed like a natural fit. “We seek to provide sustenance, shelter, and safety through the organizations we support with donations and volunteer time,” said Kicab. “The Food Bank makes it so easy to contribute, and I know I am helping someone in my community.”
A Call to Get Involved
Kicab and his wife Marta are members of our Full Plate Circle and Kicab volunteers at our Durham Branch four mornings a week. When he began, he jumped in on projects like sorting produce and packing boxes. Now he is a Super Volunteer and helps the volunteer staff set up the projects before, assists the other groups and individuals during, and resets for the next group after.
He has also assisted our staff with cooking demonstrations for partner agencies to demonstrate healthy recipes using items commonly found at the Food Bank. One of his favorite memories is helping a very young volunteer who couldn’t reach into the bins of bulk potatoes find tasks that would make her feel like she was truly contributing.
He urges others to get involved by donating and volunteering. “It’s so rewarding, but most importantly, so vital. I wish hunger didn’t exist and wasn’t so prevalent, but it does and it’s really so easy to help others.”
If you've sorted produce at the Food Bank, you've likely filled these mesh bags with family-size amounts of food. Help us thank Kicab for reaching this impressive milestone! ✂️ pic.twitter.com/xMi0AwJeUc
— Food Bank CENC (@FoodBankCENC) February 22, 2020
About Full Plate Circle
The Full Plate Circle represents a community of individuals committed to providing nourishing meals to our neighbors through annual leadership giving of $1,000 or more. You too can help eliminate hunger for families in our community by joining the Full Plate Circle today. To learn more about Full Plate Circle and the unique opportunities membership offers, contact Danielle Overcash at dovercash@foodbankcenc.org.
Or, you can make a donation today by clicking here.
