PALMDALE – The City of Palmdale’s South Antelope Valley Emergency Services (SAVES) food and shelter program is celebrating the City’s 50th anniversary by launching its “50,000 Pounds @ 50” campaign.
“We’re partnering with organizations and residents in our community to help us raise 50,000 pounds of food this year to help us assist families who need our services,” said SAVES Coordinator Patricia Morales.
Organizational partners include the United States Postal Service through their Stamp Out Hunger drive, the Palmdale School District which is planning a food drive in the fall, Target, US Bank, Mulligan Family Fun Center, Mormon Helping Hands and Keller Williams with their annual Red Day event and food drive.
“We’re thrilled to have so many outstanding organizations helping us reach our 50,000 pounds of food goal,” said Morales. “In this tough economy, the need is greater than ever before and it’s heartwarming to see so many groups stepping up to meet this need.”
Residents are also encouraged to participate in the drive by bringing non-perishable food items to SAVES, located at 1002 East Ave. Q-12 in Palmdale, formerly the Palmdale Senior Center. Tax deductible donations may be made to SAVES through the Palmdale Community Foundation (Tax ID #95-4669404.)
“If you or your group is interested in hosting a food drive for SAVES, please call us at 661-267-5191 and we’ll be glad to work with you,” added Morales.
The City of Palmdale’s SAVES program has served people in need since 1983. During the 2010/2011 fiscal year, SAVES provided 92,547 meals to families, 17,829 meals to seniors, 2,807 units of bread and bakery, and 433 motel nights to displaced families and emancipated youths.
In addition, during the 2011 Holiday season, SAVES provided 108 Thanksgiving baskets, 185 holiday baskets and 348 toys to children.
For more information, call SAVES Monday through Thursday, between 7:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. at 661-267-5191.
(Information via press release from the City of Palmdale.)
