Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA —  The American Samoa Community Food Bank extends its heartfelt appreciation to the captain and crew of the M/V Ocean Guardian and Stabbert Marine & Industrial for their generous donation of unopened frozen food that has helped nourish individuals and families throughout American Samoa.

In a letter accompanying the donation, Captain Scott Dunaway explained that the vessel had an excess supply of frozen food that could not legally be returned to the U.S. mainland and expressed his hope that it would benefit those in need—particularly elderly residents receiving care.  

Thanks to this thoughtful contribution, the American Samoa Community Food Bank was able to distribute nutritious food to some of the Territory’s most vulnerable community members, including older adults, persons with disabilities, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, and their children.

As additional emergencies arose across the Territory, the donated food also became a vital source of relief for families who unexpectedly lost their homes. Most recently, these supplies were distributed to families displaced by the residential fires in Pava’ia’i and Faga’ima, providing immediate food assistance during an incredibly difficult time.

“We are deeply grateful to Captain Scott Dunaway, the officers and crew of the M/V Ocean Guardian, Chief Steward Crystal Nailor, and Stabbert Marine & Industrial for their compassion and generosity,” said Kathryn McCutchan, Executive Director of Empowering Pacific Island Communities (EPIC). “Their donation transformed what could have become waste into hope for families facing hardship. Their kindness has touched the lives of many people throughout our community.”

The American Samoa Community Food Bank serves as an important emergency resource, providing food assistance to low-income families, elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, victims of domestic violence, and households impacted by disasters and other emergencies. As food supplies have been distributed to meet these urgent needs, inventory levels have become significantly depleted.

The Food Bank is now asking the community to help replenish its shelves.

Community members, businesses, churches, schools, civic organizations, and government agencies are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items, frozen foods, and financial contributions to ensure the Food Bank remains prepared to respond quickly when disasters strike or families experience unexpected hardship.

A well-stocked Food Bank strengthens American Samoa’s emergency preparedness by ensuring that families affected by fires, severe weather, medical emergencies, or other crises have immediate access to food while longer-term assistance is arranged.

Every donation, regardless of size, helps build a stronger and more resilient American Samoa.

For information about donating food, organizing a food drive, volunteering, or making a financial contribution, please contact:

American Samoa Community Food Bank

Empowering Pacific Island Communities (EPIC)

Phone: (684) 688-EPIC (3742)

Email: epic.samoa@gmail.com

Together, we can ensure that no family in American Samoa goes hungry during times of crisis.