DINUBA – Community members are invited to take the wheel and be the good they wish to see this holiday season.
On Dec. 13, more than a dozen car clubs, sponsors and community organizations will gather for the Dinuba Lowrider 6th Annual Canned Food and Toy Drive. Guests are encouraged to bring a toy, canned food or both, if they can, and enjoy an impressive showcase of classic automotive aesthetics.
“It’s a hard time for everybody right now, especially for people like us who work all the time,” said Michelle Perez, a member of the event’s committee. “So people that aren’t working right now, we just want to have their families and their kids to be able to have a Christmas, and take that little bit of stress off of them.”
The event will take place at Borderline Classics at 124 S. K St., with roll-in from 8-10 a.m. and the event officially kicking off at 11 a.m.
In addition to appreciating an array of meticulously maintained vehicles, attendees will also be able to participate in raffles, browse local retail vendors, enjoy some music and grab a bite from Street Corner Tacos.
Perez shared that the event is organized by a small committee of herself; her husband, Louie Perez; Joe Bueno and the original founder, Eloy Reyes. Each year, local clubs and supporters have gathered to collect canned food and toys to give to Open Gate Ministries, who handles the distribution of goods.
Perez explained that Open Gate reaches out to those who have utilized the shelter, food distribution or other services, and invites them to a mini store they set up, allowing families to “shop” for their kids.
According to Bueno, the event has seen steady growth over the years, from 30-40 cars the first year to nearly 100 last year. Along with this growth in attendance, the committee excitedly awaits a match in generosity in the name of holiday cheer.
