Here’s where Central Coast families in need can pick up food ahead of Christmas

Dec. 23

UFW Foundation- The United Farm Workers Foundation is distributing free food to essential workers starting at 4 p.m. at 118 E. Gabilan Street. Text "Esencial" to 877-877 for more.

Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds- Second Harvest Food Bank will be holding a drive-thru food distribution from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fairgrounds in Watsonville instead of its normal Friday distribution. They will be giving out produce, pantry items and frozen meats.

Bethel Missionary Baptist Church- The church is giving away Christmas baskets from 4 to 6 p.m. There are more than 900 available.

The following are hosted by the Food Bank for Monterey County:

Primera Iglesia Bautista Del Sur- Food distribution will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. at 1212 E. Alisal Street.

Salinas Valley Fairgrounds- Food distribution will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. at 625 Division Street.

New Republic Elementary School- Food distribution will take place from 2 to 3 p.m. at 636 Arcadia Way.

Cattlemen and College Roads in San Ardo- Food distribution will take place from 11 a.m. to noon.

Dec. 25

Monterey County Fairgrounds- The Community Holiday Dinner Committee will be handing out turkey sandwiches, chips and water bottles from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in front of the Monterey Room.