More than 8,000 additional residents will be served free Thanksgiving meals across Monterey County
Thanksgiving will be brighter for hundreds of local families thanks to Chris Shake and Sabu J.R. Shake, owners of Old Fisherman’s Grotto, The Fish Hopper in Monterey, and Fish Hopper Kona. Through their annual Turkey and Ham Drive, 300 pre-selected low- to very low-income households will receive a turkey or ham today through a distribution led by The Salvation Army Corps of the Monterey Peninsula.
The distribution takes place today, November 21, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at The Salvation Army office in Seaside. The Shake family’s annual fundraising effort has raised more than $45,000 this year to support local households facing food insecurity.
In addition to these 300 family meal donations, more than 8,000 individuals across Monterey County will receive free Thanksgiving meals provided through the Sabu Shake, Sr. Good Samaritan Center in Sand City and The Salvation Army office in Seaside. These meals will support programs and events including:
- Salinas Salvation Army
- Watsonville Salvation Army mobile ministries
- Thanksgiving lunch at the Monterey County Fairgrounds
- Marina Community Thanksgiving lunch
- Al & Friends’ beach meal service
This is the first major food distribution of the holiday season. The Salvation Army will also distribute Christmas dinners to 400–500 families on December 18–19, along with toys for approximately 700 children.
“Reducing food insecurity is a priority for The Salvation Army all year around,” said Captain Ashley Koebel, Corps Officer. “The holidays can be a very difficult time for many families, but thanks to the generous giving in our community, no one needs to go without.”
“It is truly our honor to have helped raise $45,000 so far to ensure that local families can enjoy a meaningful Thanksgiving meal,” added Sabu J.R. Shake, co-owner of The Fish Hopper. “Thanks to our donors and our partnership with The Salvation Army, 300 families will receive a turkey or ham today, and more than 8,000 individuals will be served next week. Supporting our neighbors is a privilege—not only at Thanksgiving, but throughout the entire holiday season.”
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army provides food assistance, clothing, shelter, disaster response, senior outreach, adult rehabilitation programs, and services for underserved children. The organization works year-round to support individuals and families facing poverty, crisis, and economic hardship.
Media Contacts:
Captain Ashley Koebel – ashley.koebel@usw.salvationarmy.org
Mali Cuda – mali.cuda@usw.salvationarmy.org
(619) 496-7781
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