Hundreds of people were able to fill their refrigerator Tuesday, thanks to the
Community Action Agency of Butte County Inc. The agency gave away thousands of pounds of food Tuesday morning in Gridley.
"For those of us who are unemployed, when money is really tight. Unemployment doesn't cut it, and food is one of the last things that we buy for ourselves," Maria Fernandez, an unemployed senior, said.
Fernandez has been out of work since February. She says her mortgage and bills have quickly drained her savings. Today's giveaway came at a good time for her and others in the community.
"It's bad enough for me as a senior, but with a family. If you've got growing kids this is a lifesaver," Fernandez said.
Tuesday's tailgate giveaway is the second one this summer, organized by the Community Action Agency and Foodlink out of Sacramento. The Community Action Agency gives out about two million pounds of food each year, through weekly distributions and events like the tailgate giveaway.
"We're trying to give them enough food for a few members of a household that could last for a week. You know it all depends on menu, preparation that type of thing. But that is what our goal is," Community Action Agency Executive Director Tom Tinorio said.
On top of the food giveaway, volunteers were talking with people about programs that can help them save in other areas like their summer energy bill.
Organizers hope to see everybody they helped at future events. They just hope they are in a better place when they return.
"In many respects the people are so appreciative, they end up giving to the next person. For instance, they will volunteer with future distributions, and that is when we are really encouraged when we see people aren't just interested in taking. They're interested in giving back as well," Tinorio said.
"I think it is a good thing they are doing this, and whoever donated all the food, we really appreciate it," Gridley resident Mike Kale said.
Officials are organizing another tailgate food giveaway in the Hamilton City area for next month.
If you would like to make a donation or volunteer your time call the Community Action Agency at 538-7559.
