Assembling sandwich lunches is a part of daily life for some students on campus, but every third Saturday of the month, students are given the opportunity to pack sandwiches to impact those in need.
The next opportunity comes on Feb. 15, when people of all ages can bring supplies for at least 25–30 meals which will, once made, be distributed to local shelters and nonprofit organizations. Volunteers are asked to bring sliced bread, deli meat, sliced cheese, yellow mustard, tangerines, chips, and sandwich bags.
“Tango Charities‘ mission is to fight hunger and food insecurity by mobilizing communities to give back through simple, hands-on volunteer events,” Tango Charities’ Director of Social Change Nicholas Marino said. “Since its founding, we have fed over 7.1 million people through more than 1,750 events worldwide. Everyone can make a difference, and working together can create lasting impact and strengthen communities.”
Providing over 65,000 meals last year, Frisco is Tango Charities’ biggest Feed The City and Redhawks can contribute to that number in a variety of ways, from spreading awareness to hosting a private Feed The City.
“We have offerings for companies, schools, groups, and more to host a Private Feed The City to help provide even more meals [and students can] use social media or school newspapers to raise awareness about food insecurity and encourage peers to participate,” Marino said.
Students in NHS can also use this monthly opportunity to gain volunteer hours.
“Volunteering is one of the most impactful ways to support those in need,” NHS President senior Nolan Sow said. “With rising food prices in the current economy, many families are struggling to afford basic necessities. That’s why opportunities like packing sandwich lunches are so important as they help ensure people have access to food. Sandwich’s are overall very nutritious, covering all aspects of required daily nutrition.”
For junior Anagha Konoru, volunteer opportunities such as this one not only help the community but also help students build life skills.
“I think it’s important to be part of a community and give back to that community,” Konoru said. “And it also equips you to work with others just like you would in the real world.”
Students have played a crucial role in forming Feed The City from the Guinness World Record holder for Most People Making Sandwiches Simultaneously to the monthly volunteer event it has become.
“Youth involvement has been a cornerstone of Tango Charities’ success,” Marino said. “High school students bring energy, creativity, and passion to our events. They’ve helped us collect hundreds of thousands of meals through Feed The City, volunteered at large-scale events, and inspired others to participate. One of the most rewarding aspects of our work is seeing young volunteers learn the value of giving back and then carry that mindset into future endeavors.”