On the anniversary of the Sept. 11. 2001, attacks, Americans will unite in service in the same remarkable way that so many came together following that day. RSVP of Central Kansas is reaching out to the communities it serves to help those in need in the form of Emergency Food Packs for those who receive home-delivered meals through Meals On Wheels.

Each pack is designed by a certified nutritionist to sustain a person is case of emergency, said Linn Hogg, director of RSVP and Volunteers In Action. The packs will be a back-up for those who do not usually have the funds to keep back-up supplies or the ability to prepare food due to disability. 

RSVP, a program under the Corporation for National and Community Service, is now seeking sponsors for Emergency Food Packs, Hogg said. Each pack costs $5.

An office or business might choose to sponsor several or family members might want to sponsor for their loved ones. The goal is to find sponsors for 200 packs which would come to two packs per person.

“This is a great way for businesses, churches, youth groups, civic groups and clubs to participate in this very important day of remembrance,” Hogg said. “This event effected all of us as a nation, and reminded us that disaster can hit us on all fronts. It could be our nation, state, county, city or our own front door. Hopefully we can find it in our hearts to pay it forward.

“This project has a quick turn-around time with funds needed by Friday, Sept. 8,” Hogg said. “However, we could take commitment forms to be billed at the end of September.”

Many of the clients who receive Meals On Wheels are home-bound or in financial distress, she said. When bad weather hits, it can close down meal preparation and delivery of the food they need. 

The packs contain a protein source, canned vegetable, fruit, dessert, crackers, condiment and water.  

The packs will then be assembled and delivered by RSVP and Volunteers In Action volunteers on Monday, Sept. 11.

On Sept. 11, 2001, terrorists struck America hoping to instill fear. Instead, the attacks sparked Americans to turn the assault into a call to come together and focus on preparedness and service. So, Sept. 11 has now been officially designated as the National Day of Service and Remembrance under the 2009 Serve America Act and the Corporation for National and Community Service coordinates it.

For more information, contact the RSVP/VIA office at 620-792-1614.