Patelco Credit Union Donates $61K To Food Banks, Residents

DUBLIN, CA — Patelco Credit Union employees surprised their members and community food banks throughout Northern California during the week of December 16 by distributing $61,000. The bulk of donations were gifted to food-related organizations struggling to meet the needs of their communities during the holiday season.

Additionally, Patelco team members distributed nearly 400 gift cards to members facing challenges during this holiday season.

“Patelco team members graciously answered the call to give back to our members,” said Erin Mendez, president and CEO of Dublin-based Patelco. “They were empowered to identify 400 members they felt could use a special touch and a small act of kindness in the form of a gift card.”

The week-long effort culminated on December 20, when Patelco team members across the region surprised area food relief organizations with donations. Proceeds went to the Redwood Empire Food Bank, the Merced County Food Bank, Open Heart Kitchen of Pleasanton, Loaves and Fishes Family Kitchen of San Jose and Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services.

“It costs $2 per meal, so a $2,500 donation would help provide 1,250 meals,” said Denise Bridges, development director at Open Heart Kitchen, discussing the $2,500 Patelco donated to the organization.

According to Mary Bigelow at Redwood Empire Food Bank, “This generous $10,000 donation will allow us to distribute $40,000 in healthy groceries to our community — that's enough food for 20,000 meals.

“An astonishing one in six Sonoma County residents face food insecurity every day, and we're incredibly grateful to Patelco Credit Union for joining our fight against hunger," Bigelow continued.

Patelco donated $10,000 to the Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services. Blake Young, the organization's president and CEO, said the gift will provide 50,000 meals for families struggling with food insecurity in Sacramento area.