Sunshine Division packs 4,000 holiday meal boxes to help families in need

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- On Saturday, hundreds of volunteers will gather at Portland International Raceway to deliver food to families, schools and faith groups across the city, thanks to the Sunshine Division.
 
Powered by community groups, police officers and volunteers, this tradition ensures no one goes hungry this holiday season.

"It's something that sort of makes our Christmas," said volunteer Terri Wallo-Strauss.

The Sunshine Division packed 4,000 holiday meal boxes with the power of over 100 volunteers.

Wallo-Strauss grew up delivering these boxes with her dad, a Portland police officer, instilling in her a lifelong passion for giving back.

She gets emotional thinking about the powerful legacy her father built, one rooted in service and community, led by the dedicated officers of the Sunshine Division.

"It's just about honoring my father and giving back to the community," she said.

Now, she's passing that tradition on to her husband and children of her own, creating a three-generation family commitment.

From packing boxes to braving snowstorms, their dedication only grows stronger each year. The pride in continuing that legacy is palpable.

"I think of my grandfather when he was like doing it and it's like I don't even think he could imagine it like grown to this scale," said Wallo-Strauss's daughter, Genessa.

The boxes are packed to the brim with everything from fresh produce to pantry staples, all set to roll out to Portland-area families this weekend.

Despite the rising demand, the Sunshine Division continues to provide food and clothing year-round. With the community's support, they've been delivering hope for 102 years and counting.

"I don't think kindness ever goes out of style. Help people because you can, because the right thing never goes out of style and so here we are over 10 decades later still doing it," said Kyle Camberg, executive director of the Sunshine Division.