Once again, California Water Association (CWA) member companies made Thanksgiving a reality for families throughout California with Operation Gobble. Partnering with local and state elected officials and nonprofits, the investor-owned water companies distributed turkeys to organizations that prepare meals for people who would not have a Thanksgiving dinner. Operation Gobble targets hunger in California.
This year, Golden State Water Company (GSWC) donated approximately 8,000 turkeys and, in conjunction with Senate President pro Tempore Kevin de León, distributed them to The Salvation Army, Boy Scouts of America, Lions Club, churches, food banks, senior centers and other nonprofits.
“Operation Gobble provides a unique opportunity to give back to the communities we serve,” said President and CEO Robert J. Sprowls. “Since the program’s inception in 1990, GSWC has donated more than 208,000 turkeys, and we are proud to continue this tradition with our water industry partners.”
Senator-Elect Tony Mendoza partnered with GSWC and San Gabriel Valley Water Company (SGVWC) to distribute turkeys to local charities. Mendoza said, “Operation Gobble enables organizations to distribute turkeys to those most in need. In these hard times, it is important to help our neighbors, so the holidays are great for everyone.”
Assemblymember Ed Chaujoined SGVWC and California American Water to distribute more than 200 turkeys to local nonprofits and noted, “This annual program is devoted to raising awareness about hunger issues in California while helping those who need it most. This year more than ever, it is important that we all reach out to others in the community to ensure that every Californian doesn’t go without a meal this Thanksgiving season.”
SouthWest Water Company, through its Suburban Water Systems subsidiary, participated in multiple events for Operation Gobble. Suburban contributed a total of 900 turkeys at different giveaway functions, making Thanksgiving a reality for many families.
Through Operation Gobble, California Water Service Company’s shareholders donated $136,750 to local charities for holiday meals in 21 of its service areas.
“The holiday season can be particularly stressful for those who are having difficulty due to economic circumstances, and we are committed to being a good neighbor and improving the quality of life in the areas we serve,” said Cal Water President and CEO Martin A. Kropelnicki.
California American Water partnered with local legislators and nonprofit charity organizations around the state to deliver 3,700 turkeys, totaling more than 23 tons, in its Sacramento, Larkfield, Monterey, Los Angeles, Ventura and San Diego Districts.