'Developed A Major Charitable Food Program': Benicia Hero

BENICIA, CA— When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. Together with Ring, we’re working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This one comes from Benicia resident Steve Young, who nominated #FoodIsFreeBenicia founder Heather Pierini.

Hero's job: Provides food to the hungry

Relationship to nominee: Met through membership in Benicia Strong

Reason for recognition:Starting with a single food stand in front of her home, Heather developed #FoodisFreeBenicia. She expanded program countywide and has now supplied over 250,000 pounds of produce and 8,000 gallons of milk to hungry people

One thing to know: She has single-handedly developed a major charitable food program, but with federal support ending, is looking for ways to keep the program going

Thank you for all you do, Heather!

>> Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here. Read about other heroes from across California here.

All photos included in this post are owned by identified third parties who have given Patch the right to use explicitly for the Patch Local Heroes series.