Bank of the Sierra announces they collected 3,100 canned and nonperishable food items in July
PORTERVILLE – Bank of the Sierra normally deals in money, but during COVID-19 they are also dealing in food for locals in need.
This week the bank announced that it collected donations of over 3,100 canned and nonperishable food items as part of a bank-wide food drive throughout Central and Southern California. The food drive started on Monday, July 6 and ended on Friday, July 31.
“Our communities showed incredible generosity during our food drive. The amount of food we received far exceeded our expectations, especially since we’re in the middle of a pandemic,” said Kevin McPhaill, president and CEO of Bank of the Sierra. “We know these donations will make it easier for those in need.”
The food was donated to food banks and other nonprofit organizations in the local area where the food was collected. These nonprofits will distribute the food to low-income individuals and families in need. Participating organizations included Central California Food Bank in Fresno, Bethlehem Center in Visalia, St. Anne’s Food Pantry in Porterville, Tulare Emergency Aid Council, Inc., Tulare Lighthouse Rescue Mission, and Kings Community Action Organization in Hanford.
The July food drive was just one way Bank of the Sierra is helping its communities during these challenging times. The focus of its Sierra Grant Program has been changed to provide funding to nonprofits that are fighting or have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Bank will continue to look for ways to help during the pandemic and beyond.
Since its inception in 2004, the Sierra Grant Program has been responsible for donating over $2.4 million to organizations that improve local communities. Nonprofits who wish to apply for a Sierra Grant can pick up an instructional brochure at any Bank of the Sierra branch or visit the Bank’s web site at bankofthesierra.com/sierragrant.
