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Vallejo’s food security needs are being met with the power of the people.
Local community organization Face Food Fridays hosted a Thanksgiving dinner box giveaway on Friday on Solano Avenue. The volunteer-run organization, which he operates three days a week, primarily distributes food to families with struggling children. While food supplies are plentiful, demand for food is increasing. A record-breaking procession and a shortage of volunteers have left Vallejo’s people starving.
“I’ve been coming here for a while after other food banks closed,” said John Abston.
It was bright and early when Faith Food Fridays opened its doors to give away turkeys. First come first serve as usual. At 10:15 a.m., less than 15 minutes after the store opened, more than 100 people were already waiting outside. Some people in line said they joined the line at 8:30 a.m. to secure this year’s Thanksgiving turkey. He must have had over 800 people at Face Food Fridays on Friday.
“We had people camping the night before. It was crazy so we stopped. rice field.
Buggs says more people are coming for healthy food, citing the economy as a reason.
“The last few weeks have been great,” says Buggs. “I think people are really feeling the economic pinch. Right now we have inflation and economic problems.”
Local food insecurity organizations were able to distribute over 700 turkeys in 2020 and over 800 the following year. This year, Faith Food Fridays handed out 800 turkeys, thanks to the generosity of local merchants and members of the Vallejo community.
Faith Food Fridays began in 2011 and serves an average of 35 households each Friday. It currently serves over 400 households each week.
“Even though we’re technically only open three days a week, people come here every day because their poverty situation doesn’t fit the schedule,” says Buggs.
Face Food Fridays has never turned its back on anyone and always makes sure people leave eating healthy. But while donations are being supplied, more volunteers are needed. “Even if he has an hour, there’s always something to do here,” says Buggs.
With a leaky roof and a dedicated team of volunteers, Faith Food Fridays still works to keep the lights on.
“It costs a lot of money to keep the lights on in the fridge and freezer, so I spent a lot of time writing grants and wanting to make money here,” Baggs said. .
Face Food Fridays is busy preparing for the holiday season. The Christmas Dinner Box and Toy Giveaway event will be on Friday, December 16th from 10am to 5pm. The toys were donated by generous community members and the Vallejo Fire Department. If interested, call (707) 557-7933 to sign up or ask about volunteering.
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