United Way food drive ensures a happy Easter
The underserved holidays can be a trying time but thanks to the efforts of United Way of Imperial County, their member agencies and numerous volunteers, many across the county are able to enjoy an Easter holiday meal.
UWIC collected and distributed 425 hams and more than two tons of potatoes on Thursday. Member agencies: Catholic Charities, Neighborhood House, Sister Evelyn Mourey Center and Salvation Army gathered food items at UWIC offices in Imperial. Items were then sent out to Ocotillo, Bombay Beach, Niland, Brawley, El Centro, Calexico and various locations in between, noted, Ken Wuytens, executive director of UWIC.
“This was our seventh annual Ham Drive Distribution and it went very well. We thank all our volunteers for their time and effort and also our contributors for their generous donations,” said Wuytens.
As on prior occasions UWIC connected with partners: Lucky Supermarket, Pepsi, Imperial Fire Cadets to support those in needs with a welcomed Easter dinner remarked Wuytens. The fire cadets provided the help to load the volunteer’s vehicles before they left the distribution site.
Jose Munoz, manager of Lucky Supermarket recalled they have participated the previous five years. “It’s a great event,” said Munoz. “They help out everybody, WomanHaven, Campasinos Unidos, Catholic Charities and Salvation Army. We look forward to it every year.”
“It is always heartwarming to see so many volunteers, donors and agencies come together to make our community a better place,” Wuytens said. “We again express our sincere gratitude to patrons of the above retailers who have been filling our donation banks at their stores.”
Wuytens reminds everyone that it is never too late to contribute to this worthy cause by calling United Way at 760-355-4900.