FORT BENNING, GA – Members of the Institute stepped up to the challenge and answered the call to help those affected by COVID-19 loss of wages on Saturday here at WHINSEC food drive.The event was conducted in front of the Institute. Following safety and sanitary protocols to minimize the spread of COVID19, people drove-thru the circle drive and did a hands-free drop-off. The command team and their family members present collected the donations.“This was an opportunity for us the military to do something for the community; the community has always been supportive of the military; this is our one opportunity to give back,” said COL John D. Suggs Jr, WHINSEC Commandant during the food drive.The idea for the Food drive evolved from a request that came in during one of COL Suggs’ virtual town hall meetings. A WHINSEC spouse asked how the Institute could help those economically affected due to the pandemic.During the two-hour event, the Fort Benning community donated 1250 lbs. of non-perishable food and 320 lbs. of goods for pets.“Our Families truly stepped up to be a blessing! We saw that giving a little back can go a long way. During times of isolation, it feels good to give rather than receive,” added WHINSEC Chaplain(MAJ) Ismael O. Serrano.Non-perishable goods went to the Safe Hope Harbor Food Bank. Their mission is to provide shelter, food, and security for adults and children of domestic violence. Pet goods were donated to the Fort Benning Stray Animal Facility on post.