Calivirgin donation helps nonprofit serve the community
Lodi-based Calivirgin recently donated 55 gallons of extra virgin olive oil, which is over 13,800 individual servings, to help feed the local community.
“Partnering with St. Mary’s Dining Room in Stockton was a no brainer,” said Julie Coldani, Calivirgin’s chief marketing officer.
St. Mary’s Dining Room has been responding to poverty in San Joaquin County by feeding the hungry, caring for health issues and restoring human dignity. On average, St. Mary’s Dining Room serves around 1,000 meals a day.
This includes a hot breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, 365 days a year. In addition, they also have a hygiene center where individuals can take a hot shower and get clean clothing, a dental clinic, medical clinic and social services program.
“Calivirgin heard of our needs and stepped in to help. Something we are always in need of is extra virgin olive oil and spices to cook meals daily,” said Leslie Elliott with St. Mary’s Dining Room. “When people think of donating, they rarely think of things like these which help season the food. We have a very tight budget for purchasing and rely heavily on donations.”
St. Mary’s Dining Room is always in need of spices, soy sauce, canned fruits/vegetables, dairy and produce. All items need to be in bulk. Hygiene supplies (travel size), and laundry/cleaning supplies as well.
If you are interested in hosting a donation drive, please contact Ryan Cerezo at 209-467-0703 or rcerezo@stmarysdiningroom.org.
The donation drop-off is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at 545. W. Sonora St. in Stockton.
Pick-up within the Stockton area can be arranged by calling the administration office at 209-467-0703.