Manta Ray Battalion donates 300 lbs of canned goods to Karidat

The Saipan Southern High School Manta Ray Battalion donated 300 lbs of canned goods to nonprofit organization Karidat Social Services last Dec. 21, 2023.

The canned food drive began in November, and throughout that time, the SSHS students donated 284 canned goods.

“It was a really helpful process to help the people in need for the holidays. It took us a whole month to gather all that food, and in the end, as a whole battalion, we did a massive good job of helping out the community,” said C/Ssg. Vikaila Palacios.

C/2Lt. Ashley Villagomez echoed what Palacios said, “The canned food drive is one of the special events we do here at the Manta Ray Battalion because of the great impact it brings to the community because not every family is so fortunate to have a meal and food in general during Christmas time and it’s an amazing feeling knowing that we’re making a positive impact during this time of the year.”

Manta Ray Battalion executive officer C/Maj. Amandus Malentino said, “The Manta Ray Battalion has a canned food drive during this time of year as it is the season of thanks, love, and appreciation. I am beyond grateful to have been a part of this event since it is all for a good cause. Thank you to everyone who contributed to our canned food drive! Happy holidays!”

The Manta Ray Battalion extended its thanks to all SSHS students along with their instructor, CSM (Ret.) Richard Basa, for contributing to this year’s canned food drive, and wish everyone happy holidays from the Manta Ray Battalion. (PR)