Santa Cruz Ag Families get free dinners

We’re still more than a week away but Christmas came a little early for families of Ag workers in Santa Cruz county.

Our cameras were there as first responders came together to help a Central Coast food bank hand out food and toys to the families.

The Second Harvest Food Bank coordinated what they call “The Christmas Project”, something they do every year.

This year, close to 180 families were served.

Along with the food bank, 30 volunteers stepped up to help plus firefighters from at least six Central Coast fire departments.

The families each got two chickens, bread, vegetables and other sides.

Those we spoke with today say those items will make a huge difference this holiday season.

“A lot of us at this time of the year, it gets really tough and we really appreciate that they take the time and their own stuff to buy us stuff and it’s amazing and we’re very thankful,” said Santa Cruz County resident Selena Salgado.

The food distributions happened at several sites around Santa Cruz County.

Though today’s distributions were part of the “Christmas Project” Second Harvest Food Bank works year-round.

If you or someone you know is in need, you can contact them at their community hotline at 831-662-0991.

For hours and more information click here.