Foodbank to distribute produce Jan. 19 to mudslide victims
Foodbank of Santa Barbara County announced that it would host a farmstand event Jan. 19, to hand out fresh produce to families of Montecito Union School District students who were displaced by flooding and mudslides.
Mandatory evacuations continued in the areas of Montecito and Summerland as search and rescue efforts continued and crews worked to clear drainage systems and open roads.
The nonprofit planned the event for 2 p.m. at Santa Barbara City College West Meadow, handing out fruits, vegetables and other healthy snacks to around 400 people free of charge. Other organizations will host games and physical activities for kids, the Foodbank said in a news release.
“I was speaking with one of our moms today whose family of five and three dogs are staying in one hotel room,” said MUSD Superintendent Anthony Ranii. “They might have a microwave, but they have no kitchen. Pulling together a family meal is very difficult.”
The Local Assistance Center that opened Jan. 17 will also provide a representative to answer questions about available assistance and services.
The Foodbank called for additional donations, estimating that costs to provide food are likely to reach $600,000 throughout the recovery.
• Contact Marissa Nall at mnall@pacbiztimes.com.
