This week, West Valley College Softball partnered with local food kitchen, Loaves & Fishes, to help serve the surrounding community, contributing to an operation that hands out more than 5,000 meals every week to individuals and families in need. Through hands-on volunteer work, the athletes assisted with food preparation, packaging, and distribution, ensuring that thousands of meals reached those facing food insecurity.

For the players, the experience was both humbling and impactful. Many spent hours working side-by-side with food kitchen staff and community volunteers, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by neighbors in their own community. What started as a service opportunity quickly became a powerful reminder of the responsibility athletes have to give back.

"Being part of something bigger than ourselves is what being on a team is all about," Sophomore Raylene Cruz shares. "Helping provide meals for people who truly need it puts everything into perspective."
Loaves & Fishes located in San Jose relies heavily on volunteers to meet the growing demand for meals each week. WVC Softball's commitment and willingness to serve played a key role in maintaining the kitchen's ability to distribute food at such a large scale, during a crucial part of the season. Their efforts not only supported daily operations but also strengthened the connection between West Valley College Athletics and the local community.

Please visit their website for more information: https://www.loavesfishes.org/