Before dawn on Tuesday, cars began to line up at Harry Schmidt Park in Gustine for a massive holiday food distribution. By mid-morning, the queue reached from the baseball field parking lot to Gustine Elementary School, highlighting both the need for support and the community spirit behind it.
For over two years, the Gustine Rotary Club has organized twice-monthly food distributions for families in Gustine, Santa Nella, Newman, and nearby towns. Rain or shine, volunteers make sure everyone leaves with food. But this Tuesday was special. Just days before Thanksgiving, the Rotary teamed up with the Merced County Food Bank and Comcast to provide full holiday meals.
Bridget Mitchell from the Merced County Food Bank emphasized that this initiative is about more than just food. She said, “Partnering with Comcast helps us reach neighborhoods that don’t often get support, especially when times are tough. We’re bringing comfort through food.”
Rotary President Cindy Jamero echoed this sentiment. “Thanksgiving is a time for giving. We are thankful to Comcast and the Food Bank for their help every two weeks,” she noted.
Rotarian Derek Nunes reflected on the dedication that made this day possible. “This program has been running for over two years, twice a month. It’s not just Rotarians; many community members pitch in because they care,” he shared.
Nathan Ahle from Comcast described their involvement as part of their commitment to the community. “Supporting local families is vital to our mission,” he stated. “We are proud to partner with the Merced County Food Bank and the Gustine Rotary.”
As volunteers loaded cars with turkeys and holiday staples, families showed their appreciation. Maria, a mother of two, highlighted the importance of this support amid rising grocery costs. “This helps us have a real Thanksgiving,” she said. Anthony, another resident, felt the day was important. “You can sense the care everyone put into this,” he noted.
Elena was there with her elderly mother, grateful for the food that allowed them to keep their traditions alive. Jasmine, juggling three kids, found the distribution eased her holiday stress. Robert, who took a break from work to join, appreciated the Rotary Club’s consistent support.
This distribution wasn’t just a one-off event. The partnership among the Rotary, the Merced County Food Bank, and Comcast aims to continue supporting families year-round. For many, the effort on November 18 brought not just food but a sense of hope, dignity, and the reminder of a strong, caring community.
According to a recent study by Feeding America, food insecurity affects millions of families nationwide. Initiatives like this are critical in addressing the growing concern, especially as food prices rise. Engaging the community through consistent support shows how local organizations can come together to make a real difference.
For more detailed statistics on food insecurity and its impact, visit the Feeding America Research page.
