Providing Free Meals

07.25.11 (LAS CRUCES) -- The economy may be improving, but not as fast as many people hope. Leaders from one local organization say the need is growing with no immediate sign of slowing down.

Almost on a regular basis Reynaldo Armendariz waits in line for what he calls the best part of his day.

"For many of us its our daily bread," he said.

He sees many familiar faces whom all share similar circumstances.

"We come here because we are needy, I recently retired at the age of 62, I get $600 SSI, I pay $400 rent, that don't leave me very much to eat," said Armendariz.

So they come to El Caldito Soup Kitchen, a community based volunteer organization helping feed those in need.

"For many of them, this is the only meal they get a day, the whole day," said Gabe Anaya, one of the 13 board members, not only making decisions for the organization, but helping cook a warm meal.

"They come from all over and they're all kinds. Some of them are homeless, some of them live in the general area here, some of them are transits and there are some that have a home, but are making ends meet so they do come and eat," he said.

El Caldito began 27 years ago in a church serving just sandwiches and soup for only four days. Now, it has its own space feeding people seven days a week.

"We treat them as our fellow citizens, we do not tell them you can't have two deserts, and we push fruits and salads," said board member, Rebecca McNair.

Board members say they fed 65,000 people in 2009 and 75,000 last year. They plan to feed about 90,000 by end of 2011.

"I like to cook for the community. I know there's a lot of people that need a lot of food so, I try to do my best to give a little bit to the community," said David Riviello, 20, one of many volunteers who line up everyday for a chance to give back to their community.

"I feel like instead of spending my time watching TV or spending my time entertaining myself doing other stuff, I think I can be constructive with my time. I feel like every thing that you give comes back to you, too you know," said Riviello.

During a tough economy when the need seems to only grow, leaders with the organization say they're grateful to the many people willing to give food, and their time.

Reported by Carlos Correa.

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[netradioheyu]

what are the hours.....im hungry