Locations of Local Food Drives - Please Help!!!

Mission San Juan

Canned Food Drive at Mission San Juan Capistrano -- Help the less fortunate in the community by contributing canned food items to Mission San Juan Capistrano's Serra's Pantry. The items will be collected at the Mission's front gate and at the Starbucks across the street December 6-20.

Salt Creek Grille

Salt Creek Grille to host food drive, event with former NFL player to benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County

(Dana Point, CA) – Salt Creek Grille will host a two-week food drive starting Monday and special event on Dec. 14 – featuring a former NFL player – in an effort to benefit the needy during the holidays.

The popular establishment along Pacific Coast Highway is partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County to host the food drive and special event on Dec. 14 that will feature 6-foot-9 former NFL defensive end Jerry Wilkinson. During the first two weeks of December, customers who bring any non-perishable canned or packaged food item to the restaurant will receive a free dessert.

“Donations of both food and financial support have been significantly impacted as a result of the economic crisis,” said Pete Truxaw, who co-owns the 12-year-old eatery with Tim McCune. “Consequently, we have decided to try to heighten the awareness for the need to continue to give to this critical source of sustenance here in Orange County.”

On Dec. 14, Salt Creek Grille will donate 10 percent of the day’s proceeds to the food bank, which provides more than 1 million pounds of food each month for more than 220,000 people in need. Representatives from Second Harvest will be on hand at 11:30 a.m. along with Wilkinson, who played for the Los Angeles Rams, Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers.

Officials say the need for food and monetary donations is even greater due to the sluggish economy. Donations of canned soups, juices, meats, chili, fish, fruits and vegetables; beef stew; macaroni and cheese; rice; beans; cereals; and peanut butter are items that are most in demand.

“Because donations have been so low this year, we need to pursue each and every opportunity to reach out into the community for help,” said Lorina Smith, food drive coordinator.

Truxaw and McCune are only too happy to assist the food bank in any way possible. The partners have spent years using the restaurant as a vehicle to benefit local charities and non-profits.

“We hope for a big turn out on Dec. 14 for either our award-winning Sunday Jazz Brunch; a relaxing afternoon lunch; or a spectacular Sunday supper featuring our new Brandt Beef all-natural steaks and other inventive new menu selections,” Truxaw said. “Second Harvest Food Bank plans to have some of their representatives on hand to answer any questions about their wonderful organization throughout the day. People can feel good about enjoying great food while helping to support those who are less fortunate.”

Salt Creek Grille is at 32802 Pacific Coast Highway and Crown Valley Parkway.

For more information about restaurant hours, the Dec. 1-14 food drive and special event, call 949-661-7799. Information about Salt Creek Grille is also available at www.saltcreekgrille.com.

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