How did Numana get started?
Numana, Inc. has a simple, yet powerful vision – empower people to save the starving. Born from the heart of Rick McNary, the meal packaging organization is active and thriving. Numana’s board of directors includes Dr. H Richard Kuhns, ll, Mike Kriewiel, Sam McVay, Dick Morris and advocates Bob Dole and George McGovern. Working together with an incredible volunteer base, the organization successfully launched the international hunger relief program at a flagship event held in December 2009 in El Dorado, Kansas. This set the stage for 20 million meals packaged in mere months.
Do you send food to people in other countries besides Haiti?
The Numana distribution system is provided through its relationship with The Salvation Army World Service Office (SAWSO), an established organization allowing food to reach areas of the world where other groups don’t have the resources or infrastructure to venture. SAWSO ensures that the crates of nutrient enriched meals are promptly and safely shipped by plane and distributed directly to those who are in desperate need all over the world.
How many meals/bags have been packaged at Numana events?
As of July, 2010, Numana and its volunteers have packaged an incredible 20,359,270 meals!
How do you know the food is safely reaching the intended recipients?
Thanks to the extensive network of the Salvation Army, and their footprint in hundreds of countries around the world, Numana food is ensured safe delivery.
What is the nutritional value of a Numana meal?
A Numana meal has four different ingredients: rice, soy, beans for added protein, and chicken flavoring providing 21 vitamins targeted to help the immune system.
How does the food taste? Can I purchase a package for my family to taste-test or as an object lesson?
When cooked in safe boiling water, a Numana meal has the base flavoring of chicken stock. Because the digestive system of a starving body cannot handle greasy, heavy, or highly spiced foods, the Numana meal is a basic starting point to build the body’s digestive system back up and offer nourishment along with a mild chicken flavor. Bags are available to purchase for $5 at any event, the donation is used to package more meals to save the starving.
How are the meals prepared? Where do people get the water they need to prepare these meals?
The meals are prepared in table stations making up an assembly line of helping hands. Volunteers measure the ingredients with scoops, and fill and seal the bags as teams. Local water usually suffices as most impurities are boiled as the meals are prepared. In areas where water is scarce, Numana works with local agencies to provide water.
I read an article that said the meals included freeze-dried veggies, but my table packaged beans instead; why?
As of April 2010, Numana replaced the freeze-dried vegetables with beans. The beans add more substance to the dish, while supplying a strong source of protein.
Do you recycle your aprons and hairnets?
This is up to the event hosts. Numana does not currently have a recycling program activated, but event sponsors are encouraged to recycle such items on their own.
When will there be an event in my area?
Because of its rapid progress, Numana events take place on almost a weekly basis, primarily on the weekends. Please regularly refer to the “Events” page of the website for date and location updates, and event results.
Do I have to register to attend an event? How long is a packaging shift?
Most events have a set registration sheet located on its specific page found on the “Events” section of this website. Also, please check event sponsor’s websites for registration information. As many events are hosted by generous sponsors, the registration process can differ and is not always required. Shifts are usually one hour long.
Is there any cost or required donation to help package meals?
No. What makes Numana unique is that it offers the hands-on opportunity to help, an alternative to writing a check. However, for those who cannot attend an event in their area, or are inclined to offer a monetary gift, donations are accepted at each event. Also, you may click on “Donations” on the homepage of this website to learn more.
Can my kids help package?
Yes! Volunteers of all ages are invited to package meals at Numana events. Those from 1 to 90 have enjoyed the process.
What is the role of a “green/red shirt” volunteer and what is the minimum age, if any, to be one?
The green and red shirt volunteers act as event managers at each packaging event, ensuring that the assembly line process goes smoothly, and that everyone has a chance to be part of the fun. These specially designated volunteers must be 18 years old.
I was a “green/red shirt” volunteer at a prior event; do I need to attend training again?
No. One round of proper training is all that is required to be a designated “green/red” shirt volunteer. However, these volunteers can expect planning meetings before subsequent events to go over details pertaining to those specific location/event needs.
I came to a previous event and have pictures/videos to share.
Numana welcomes you to share more about your meal packaging experience. You can send them to the public relations team for consideration to post on the Numana website, its social networking pages, or for marketing use. Contact lpestinger@jajo.net for these inquiries.
I have trouble standing for long periods of time; is there a way I can still help?
Yes! All are welcome to join the Numana packaging process. For individuals requiring seating, any point in the Numana assembly line can be accommodated with chairs.
Where can I learn more about eradicating world hunger?
Please visit the “Knowledge Center” found at the bottom of Numana’s homepage for links to world hunger resources.
I have a comment, question, or idea for Numana.
Numana welcomes your feedback. Please visit “Contact Us” to send your questions and comments.