3 months ago
SACRAMENTO, CA - With many state workers facing a 14-15 percent drop in their salaries, the River City Food Bank in Sacramento is reporting more state employees needing help this holiday season.
Since March, the organization has reported a growing number of state employees applying for services.
"They had worked through some of their savings funds. That had really caught up with them and they were kind of desperate at the end of the month in order to put food at the end of the table for their families," said Eileen Thomas, Executive Director of the River City Food Bank.
"Two to three years ago, these people were donating food to us...Now, they're here showing up on Fridays, in part, looking for food," said Steven Anderson, Program Manager.
News10 interviewed one state worker at the food bank who went through furloughs, a foreclosure, and even a layoff.
"Sometimes you go days without eating. You get rid of your pride and go get some food. This place you can go to," said the state employee who preferred not to give a name.
River City Food Bank offers anyone in the Sacramento area a three-day supply of nutritional food.
"We have a standard healthy oatmeal and fresh fruit if we can get it," said Thomas.
Many people who visit the food bank choose not to disclose that they are state workers. Even so, the agency says it has served up to seven state workers on the same day.
"Now, people drive up in recent cars. They come with all the accoutrements of a former life that they no longer are able to maintain," said Thomas.
Stanely Jamerson, who retired from Pacific Gas & Electric after 36 years, regularly goes to the food bank.
"It helps me supplement my food income before the month runs out. So, I come down and get extra food." said Jamerson.
Unlike other food banks or food pantries, River City Food Bank does not offer service based upon a zip code. Thomas says it serves anyone in the Sacramento area in need.
River City Food Bank says it is always in need of fresh fruit donations like bananas and apples, and turkeys for Thanksgiving.
By Suzanne Phan, sphan@news10.net
News10/KXTV
