ORANGE COVE – With the season of giving in full swing, two local organizations teamed up to give back to the community.
On Nov. 22, patients of United Health Centers (UHC) gathered for the Third Annual Gobble and Give: Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway. A partnership between UHC and Espinoza Brothers Food Distribution, the event saw around 150 free Thanksgiving meals distributed to local families.
“I know (Orange Cove) has a lot of farmworkers, and being farmworkers ourselves growing up, it touches our heart and that’s why we want to be able to help people, especially in this time of need,” said Juan Espinoza, general manager and one of the Espinoza Brothers.
This is the third year that the two organizations have partnered up for giveaway events in the county, with previous food and toy drives in Parlier and Selma. According to Kelly Garzon, director of communications with UHC, Espinoza Brothers provides all of the food, and UHC provides the recipients.
Garzon explained that UHC looks at the various socioeconomic factors and background information of its patients, and nominates those who can benefit from a free meal. After reaching out to those selected and confirming they’d like a meal, the list was created.
Upon arrival, guests checked in at the front booth, then went down the line as employees and volunteers from both UHC and Espinoza Brothers loaded a box for them. The full meals included ham, turkey, stuffing, rolls, canned vegetables, rolls, pumpkin pie and more, all staples for a classic Thanksgiving dinner.
According to Garzon, some visitors expressed thanks for the food drive to event workers, with some sharing that they were able to change or expand their Thanksgiving plans to be able to gather for dinner with their families. To Garzon, events such as these are another way for UHC to accomplish its mission of providing for the Valley communities.
“We go beyond healthcare,” Garzon said. “We want to go in providing access to patients, and giving that opportunity for these patients to receive just like any other family.”
Espinoza and Garzon both expressed excitement for the development of this partnership, and aim to provide even more meals for families at future giveaways.
