More than 200 volunteers arrived at St. Anthony High School last weekend to package black beans and rice for youth who often go without meals.

The event was sponsored by Thrivent Financial and Generosity Feeds, a nonprofit dedicated to eliminating child hunger through two-hour packing drives.

“We were really excited to put on the event this year,” said Julie Valadez, a Thrivent Financial insurance associate who organized the event with her husband Ric. “We want to show the good work that a diverse group of people can come together and accomplish.”

After the meals are packed, they are distributed through local schools or food pantries to students who qualify for free and reduced meals.

“We always need help sometime in our lives,” said Ric Valadez, also an insurance associate at Thrivent. “Being able to give back and participate with others is great.”

Added Julie Valadez, “We have so many needs in the community right now, and we want to help.