Airmen give back to Altus citizens at local soup kitchen

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Levin Boland
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
The aroma of freshly-cooked food fills the air as hungry Altus citizens wait to eat at the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen, Jan. 8, 2015.

Civilian and military members from Altus AFB spent hours preparing and serving sandwiches, soup and desserts to individuals in need.

These small acts of kindness go a long way. According to Irma Roblez, Salvation Army bookkeeper, feeding individuals in need through the soup kitchen would not always be possible if it wasn't for the base volunteers.

"It's very helpful," said Roblez. "They always seem to be here when we  need them most. If it wasn't for the Airmen, we would probably be closed today."

Over the course of four hours, six Altus AFB Airmen served food to more than 50 individuals; although, the families in need are not the only ones being impacted by this.

One first-time volunteer, U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Josenan Cruz, 97th Medical Group Tricare operations and patient administration clerk, was inspired to see how much of an impact his volunteering had on the community.

"I initially came out just to see how I could help out, but once you get to see the impact of us serving food to those in need, it really makes you feel amazing," said Cruz. "This is something that more Airmen should know about because you are really impacting people's lives just by coming out and volunteering."

As she looked around at all of the families eating, Roblez said, "All of these people wouldn't have been fed today if you all didn't come out to help. I'm so thankful for all of the help over the years."

If you would like to volunteer at the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen, call 580-481-6047.