Bob Johnson
It is time to begin planning your food purchases for the upcoming SaddleBrooke Ranch spring food drive. This has been an annual event for several years and is conducted in collaboration with SaddleBrooke Community Outreach (SBCO). This year the food drive will benefit the Tri-Community Food Bank (TCFB) based in Mammoth and serving people in Mammoth, San Manuel and Oracle. We need volunteers in each Unit to assist with distribution of fliers the week before the drive and food pick-up volunteers with a larger SUV or pick-up truck beginning at 8:00 a.m. on the 25th. Please contact Bob Johnson at [email protected] if you would like to volunteer.
Why a food drive? This is an area of chronic poverty and little support. There are many families needing assistance due to the lack of jobs in the Tri-Community area. When the mines closed some people had the opportunity to leave the area, but many had limited or no options but to stay in the area. It is estimated that 98% of the kids in the Mammoth Elementary School are eligible for government free or reduced lunch programs. There is a huge need.
How does TCFB operate? It is a 100% volunteer organization with a Board of Directors overseeing the operation plus a modest thrift shop offering a variety of clothing and household items. It has been a very positive experience for SBR residents to work with SBCO on this important event. SBCO has been conducting this drive for 18 years. The welcome SBR delivery people receive from the SBCO volunteers has always been a heartwarming experience.
What can you do? Support the March 25 SBR food drive. Do this by either leaving a bag of nonperishable food on your driveway at 8:00 a.m. and/or considering a financial contribution, which will be sent directly to TCFB. We will have a cash contribution collection box in the Bistro, or you can leave an envelope with your check on the 25th pick-up.
Families in the Tri-Community area need our support.