Salinas and King City Districts Provide Food, Donations

Cal Water partnered with local legislators and charitable organizations today to help feed and provide services to community members in need. Through the utility’s annual Operation Gobble program, Cal Water donated $10,000, along with an additional $10,500 in Butterball turkey gift certificates, to ensure Salinas Valley families could enjoy a Thanksgiving meal and receive support throughout the holidays. The donations were distributed during a socially distanced, drive-thru style Operation Gobble event.

“Cal Water is committed to improving the lives of those in the communities we serve,” said District Manager Brenda Granillo. “The holidays can be a stressful time already, but this year more than ever, we are here to support local organizations and families, as the coronavirus pandemic has had a profound effect financially on many of our customers and community members. That is why we increased this year’s donation from previous years.”

According to Granillo, Operation Gobble donations come from the utility’s philanthropic giving program, not from water rates. Donations were presented to Sun Street Center, LULAC, East Salinas Family Center, Victory Mission, First United Methodist Church, Salvation Army of Salinas, Dorothy’s Place, Loaves & Fishes, and the Salvation Army of King City. Representatives from Salinas Mayor Pro Tem Christie Cromeene’s, Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez’s, Assemblymember Robert Rivas’, and State Senator Anna Caballero’s offices assisted with the Butterball donations.