Herndon Without Hunger to Feed Hundreds of Area Families

FAITH Social Services 8th annual Herndon without Hunger program is estimated to serve about 4,000 individuals in the next few weeks, providing them with food staples.

Iman Khatib and Somayyah Ghariani, coordinators for the program, said the food distribution program happens once a week for four weeks during Ramadan.

Khatib and Ghariani said for those organizers and volunteers who are Muslim, the program is especially significant and feeds their spirit because they spend their days fasting during Ramadan, while feeding community members in need.

FAITH is a nonprofit that started about 11 years ago as an informal group at the All Dulles Area Muslim Society, before becoming a nonprofit.

The Herndon without Hunger program was operating out of the Herndon Fortnightly Library for the past few years, but has moved to Herndon Middle School this year so the organization can more easily serve more people in need.

Ghariani said the move has made it easier on those they serve as well, because they’re able to be indoors where it isn’t as hot. At the library many would wait outside in the high temperatures.

Many of those who come in for assistance are families or elderly. Ghariani said the program has shown FAITH and its volunteers how much need there is in the community.

About 150 families were served during the first distribution last week. Khatib said the number of people who come tends to rise exponentially each week as word of the program spreads.

Khatib and Ghariani said the food items that are distributed come from donations, as well as money donated toward the program. They try to purchase items that are staples that can last a long time.

Last week items such as rice, salt, sugar and vegetables were given out. This week oil will be one of the items provided. Ghariani said they accept any type of assistance they can get, but monetary donations help them purchase more food at once at wholesale prices to give out.

The event takes place on Thursdays, and doors open at 5 p.m. Wristbands are given to those who are lined up and waiting for food to ensure they can serve as many people as possible. There are no criteria to be qualified for the program, and no questions are asked.

Khatib said if they do ask for information of those who come it is so they can better improve the program and to see if they’re able to help those who come in other areas, such as job searching.

Khatib said the event is a great opportunity for children and teens to volunteer and get involved, and teaches them about giving back to their community.

Previous, and usually returning, volunteers include Del. Tom Rust, former Herndon Mayor Steve DeBenedittis, former Herndon Councilman Jasbinder Singh and Fairfax County employees.

Khatib and Ghariani said they also try to make the event festive, especially for the children. Last week they brought in balloons and goodie bags. They said it can be difficult for people to have to ask for help or assistance during hard times, so the volunteers try to ensure they’re smiling and are warm and welcoming.

They said summer can also be one of the toughest times for those in need because people focus most on giving during the holidays. The food being distributed can help families and children get through the end of the summer until they can eat at school again.

Those who would like to volunteer their time, make a monetary donation, or donate food can contact FAITH Social Services at HWH@FaithUS.org. 

UPCOMING FOOD DISTRIBUTION DATES:

• Today - July 26 from 5-6 p.m.
• Thursday, August 2 from 5-6 p.m.
• Thursday, August 9 from 5-6 p.m. 

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