Foodbank volunteers distribute ingredients to make healthy holiday meals

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.

Thanks to Foodbank donations and volunteers a special distribution took place on the eve of Christmas Eve at St. George Community Center on Mason St. on Santa Barbara's lower east side.

Foodank of Santa Barbara County's Chief Development Officer Dan Thomas said, "St. George became a partner around the time that Unity Shoppe closed its doors for a bit."

After an emergency distribution at the center volunteers decided to do more.

Employees from Sonos and Deckers volunteered with local families.

Recipients shared their gratitude.

Mary Field said, "We just moved here into the area, so this is, you know, a chance for us to learn the resources that are around the community, and just thankful that we have a place to go to get food especially around the holidays."

Emily Lazaro said, "I can whip something up."

She will be able to make chicken and more.

"I' m very appreciative. Thanks for helping me and my family out and everyone else in the community."

The Caleel brothers came with their grandmother.

Indigo Caleel,9, called volunteering, "a fun thing to do for Christmas."

Adrian Caleel, 11, said, "We are givng out food to everyone who can't afford it."

It won't go to waste.

Community center volunteer Jacqueline India said they gave food for holiday meals to 50 families..

"We have extra things to distribute through the night and the next couple of days."

Whatever remains will fill the center's pantry.

To donate to more distributions, like this one, visit Foodbanksbc.org