The Brentwood Regional Community Chest is getting ready for its annual holiday drive, which gives more than 500 families in Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay and Knightsen a holiday dinner, canned food and presents for their kids, ContraCosta.news reported.
Why it matters: The drive is a long-running East County tradition that helps hundreds of local families during the holidays.
How to give
Starting the second week of November, barrels and bins will be placed around far East County for non-perishable food and new toys, according to ContraCosta.news.
Key dates
- Friday, Dec. 18: Volunteers pack food boxes from 4 to 9 p.m. in the Brentwood Elementary cafeteria.
- Saturday, Dec. 19: Food and toys go out to families from 7:30 a.m. to noon.
Volunteers are welcome both days, and no sign-up is needed in advance, according to the group's website. Packing and distribution take place at Brentwood Elementary School, 200 Griffith Lane.
A 50-year tradition
The Community Chest was founded more than 50 years ago by Rose Pierce, who earlier started the Delta East Coalition to collect money and food for families in need, ContraCosta.news reported. A moment of silence is held in her honor each year on packing night.