VENTURA COUNTY, Calif.— During Food Share’s 10th annual CAN-tree food drive, Ventura County Credit Union joined forces with its members, employees and vendors to raise $13,000 to support those experiencing food insecurity. This was VCCU’s 10thconsecutive year participating in the food drive.
During the CAN-tree drive, individuals, businesses and organizations can collect canned goods themselves or “buy and build” by sending funds directly to Food Share to purchase cans. Then, participants stack the cans into a display of holiday-themed CAN-trees. Each tree requires approximately 600-800 cans to build. After the event is over, Food Share distributes the cans to food pantries that serve Ventura County residents.
With the help of numerous donors, VCCU said it raised enough money to build 19 trees and had one in Food Share’s Founder’s Row. Food Share honored the credit union with two awards for its efforts — the Best Theme award, as well as a second place Can Crusher award for building so many trees.
“CAN-tree is a wonderful event that brings the community together while making a major difference for those in need,” said VCCU’s president and CEO, Linda Rossi. “We look forward to participating every year, and we are so thankful for our generous members, staff and partners who helped us show such tremendous support for this worthy cause.”
Each year VCCU participates in and/or sponsors more than 500 local events and collaborates with numerous local businesses, schools and nonprofits to benefit the community.