WATSONVILLE, CA – November 14, 2022 – California Giant Berry Farms today announced the distribution of $43,500 to ten non-profit organizations throughout the Central Coast via its philanthropic initiative, The California Giant Foundation. The funds are a culmination of the Foundation’s fundraising efforts throughout the year—including its Skirt Steak Barbecue, a celebrated community tradition—and office-wide initiatives, spearheaded by an enthusiastic volunteer committee of California Giant employees.

“For California Giant, giving back is always in season—and has been the backbone of the company since its inception,” said Joe Barsi, president of California Giant Berry Farms. “We are invested in where we grow and strive to be there for our neighbors with real reasons to smile. Distributing these checks to such worthy organizations is a good example of that.”

The grand total of $43,500 has been distributed among local non-profit organizations just in time for the holiday season, including: CASA of Monterey County, CASA of San Benito County, CASA of Santa Cruz County, Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services, Kinship Center, Monarch Services, Partnership for Children, Pajaro Valley Loaves and Fishes, Pajaro Valley Shelter Services and Teen Kitchen Project.

In addition to the Foundation’s Spreading Smiles year-end donations, the California Giant Foundation continues to give back in berry big ways—with Santa’s Workshop just around the corner—which allows California Giant employees to sponsor families in need for the holiday season with additional funds raised through the Foundation.

“California Giant has created a model of community support that all businesses should aspire to. Like all our sister organizations, we are so grateful to be included as partners each year with California Giant! Together, we are spreading smiles and making miracles happen every day!” said Mike Johnson, executive director at Pajaro Valley Shelter Services.

The holiday season may come and go, but the needs of the community will continue. To learn more about the critical work led by the organizations, click here.