Look for or be one of the helpers

To paraphrase Mrs. Rogers, mother of Fred Rogers: Look for the helpers.

A variety of public and private entities are hosting Thanksgiving food drives and giveaways to aid families affected by the recent federal government shutdown and the reduction in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP.

Beginning at 9 a.m. on Nov. 15 SBHIS Insurance Services is providing a Turkey and groceries to families who register for the event.

“This event is our way of giving back and standing with our neighbors during challenging times,” wrote Pat Salas, owner of SBHIS. “With the cost of living and food insecurity on the rise, we want our community and their families to know we’re here for them—not just during the holidays, but all year long.”

Turkeys and groceries are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis and are given away while supplies last at 740 Bay Blvd. in Chula Vista.

An RSVP is required and can be made by calling (888) 226-2446.

In National City on Nov. 22 the office of Council member Ditas Yamane presents District 3 Neighborhood Thanksgiving Celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at El Toyon Park. For more information call (619) 405-3373 .

On Nov. 24 beginning at 6 p.m. ROA hosts a free turkey giveaway for families at The Hub in Eastlake, 2434 Fenton St. Suite 300 in Chula Vista.

Traditionally this is the time of year when more helpers appear and contribute to their communities in large and small ways.

As the holidays draw closer and the year winds down there will be more opportunities to give. Share news of those events with people around you.

But keep in mind these are extraordinary times. While some of our neighbors are hungry and in financial distress there are also those who are being targeted by federal agents. Someone in the wrong place at the wrong time could find themselves arrested and separated from their family, their loved ones and their community.

Help where you can, when you can, how you can. Be one of the people Mrs. Rogers told her son, Fred, about.