EAST ST. LOUIS - There is no room for waste during these hard economic times and the 1344th Transportation Company based in East St. Louis found a way to eliminate waste from it's dining facility and assist the local community at the same time.
During the first drill weekend of this year, the 1344th Soldiers donated all of their surplus food to a local homeless shelter.
The Holy Angels Homeless Shelter, located just eight blocks from the armory, was very enthusiastic about the 1344th philanthropic decision. The shelter has been around since 1985 and relies on donations to cover over half of the shelter’s operating costs.
"We are so blessed the Soldiers decided to do this for us," said Mary, a resident at the Holy Angels Homeless Shelter. "Recently, a lot more people within the community have needed the shelter’s services."
Currently, the shelter has four residents, but can house up to 13. While only women and children can stay at the house, they provide help and services to anyone in the community.
Sheba, a weekend volunteer with Holy Angels, explained how the shelter gives surplus food to families who have homes, but are also struggling. They also provide help with finding daycare, supplying a bus vouchers, and a safe haven for women in abusive relationships.
"There are not that many people in the immediate area who know about the 1344th Transportation Company," explained Capt. Bradley Roach, commander of the 1344th. "We have wanted to reach out and participate in the community for awhile now."
Chief Warrant Officer (2) Michael Decker and Cpl. Andre Clayton coordinated and planned the donation program for the 1344th.
Every month, the 1344th will donate surplus food to a different shelter within the community.