By Socorro M. Manzanilla, Salesian Cooperator
(Rosemead, California) – Five years ago at Thanksgiving, Kidz Feeding Kidz (KFK) was born from the passion and vision of two brothers, Nolan and Nicolas Adalin, students at Don Bosco Technical Institute in Rosemead. With unwavering dedication, a heart for others, and the support of their family, they created an initiative to give back to those less fortunate. Their charitable service this Thanksgiving was made possible with the support of the St. Joseph Retreat Center Salesian Cooperators and Sunday Mass communities, all of whom believe in the power of these young men’s dream.
With the approval of Fr. Thien Nguyen, SDB, the director of the Salesian community in Rosemead, the KFK student leaders went to the October meeting of the Salesian Cooperators at St. Joseph Retreat Center. They went to draw support for their initiative, and to their surprise they received a challenge. As part of his provincial visitation, Fr. Mel Trinidad, SDB, was present at the Cooperator meeting. He challenged the young men to double their impact by filling thirty baskets, not just fifteen, for needy families this year.
The inspired KFK leaders spread their wings and cast a wider net. What started as a small idea grew into something extraordinary. With tireless outreach to friends, family, and contacts, KFK surpassed its goal. On November 17, a stunning $1,205 and eight large boxes of canned food were donated for Thanksgiving baskets, bringing joy to 33 needy families in East Los Angeles. According to the parents of the Adalin brothers, “God blessed us with sending generous people our way to grow KFK every year to serve even more people in our East LA community.”
Nolan and Nicolas, your dedication and big dreams reflect the very spirit of St. John Bosco, reminding us all of the power of kindness, generosity, and community. You are true examples of what it means to give selflessly.
Thank you to everyone who contributed, and a heartfelt Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Socorro M. Manzanilla, BA, MPH, is a retired public health professional, a contributing writer for InTouch, and a Salesian Cooperator at St Joseph’s Retreat Center in Rosemead, California.