The Kaneland High School girls and boys cross country teams volunteered at Feed My Starving Children on Wednesday, Sept. 27, to help feed kids across the world.

     The volunteers made 142 boxes of food, the third-highest amount produced at this location. A total of 30,672 meals were made, which can feed 84 kids for a year. The meals were made of dried vegetables, vitamins, soy and rice. Not only did this experience help kids in need, but it was also a way for the team to get closer.

     When the students first arrived, they were seated in a large room where they took off all jewelry and got hair nets to put on. Once volunteers learned the basics of what was happening, they were sent back to get started.

     At each table, there were two people scooping measured amounts of veggies, vitamins, soy and rice into a bag. The person holding the bag would weigh it, making sure it had enough food. The bags were then sealed and boxed. The room was filled with a buzz as volunteers worked tirelessly to make as many meals as they could.

     “There was a lot of teamwork involved, as well as noticing what needed to be done to help make the process go smoothly,” girls cross country parent and volunteer Heather Walker said. 

     Volunteers were then brought back to the first room where they learned how many boxes and meals they packed. Many people were enthusiastic to be able to volunteer and help others. 

     Among the volunteers was sophomore and cross country runner Abigail Lechocki, who said, “[Feed My Starving Children] is a great organization to volunteer for. It is helping a lot of people around the world and it should be very beneficial.” 

     Adults and students alike were saying how amazing it was to be able to support this group that helps others and to be a part of something bigger than themselves.

     With Feed My Starving Children being popular and many people enjoying it, students wondered if they will be going back next year. 

     “It is very likely we will,” boys cross country coach Chad Clarey said. “This is our second year because of COVID, we would have been here since 2019.”