HONG KONG - Sailors and Marines from the forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) visited the Hang Seng Management College during a community service project Nov. 1.

After a tour of the campus, 21 service members joined the hand-in-hand committee to paint bags that will be filled with rice and canned goods and then presented to the poverty stricken areas in the city.

"The visit to the college was a win-win," said Lt. Cmdr. William Muhm, chaplain aboard Bonhomme Richard. "This not only gave us a chance to view the business side of things but more importantly, it was a good cultural interaction for the Sailors and Marines."

The hand-in-hand committee was formed a year ago by students to help support those in need during the holidays.

"These students really show initiation," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel) 1st Class Alberto Jesus. "This program shows that they give back to the community and how much they care about their people. It was very exciting to be able to interact with the students and help with this project."

Community service projects like these not only give service members the opportunity to experience different cultures while they are deployed but also the chance to help make a difference in the local community.

The Navy and Marine Corps are dedicated to promoting stability and prosperity by providing a maritime force that protects and defends the interest of the U.S. and its partners and allies in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), commanded by Capt. Cathal S. O'Connor, is comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard, amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) and amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) and is currently operating in the 7th Fleet area of operations.