San Fernando Valley Jaycees Kick Off Annual Food Drive

The San Fernando Valley Jaycees kicked off their third annual food drive Wednesday benefiting the Valley Interfaith Council's Food Pantry Coalition, which has procured and distributed emergency food for residents in need in the San Fernando Valley since 1973.

In a partnership with the Encino Chamber of Commerce, the San Fernando Valley Jaycees will be collecting donations from Sept. 7-16. Donations may be dropped off at the 4922 Balboa, or any of the other public drop off locations.

locations in Encino and Tarzana will give a free smoothie to anyone who donates five non-perishable items. 

California Pizza Kitchen will be accepting donations at their location in the Northridge Fashion Center. Patrons who bring in 5 donations will receive 10% off on their food purchases.

Public donations may also be dropped off at the offices of State Senator Alex Padilla in Van Nuys at 6150 Van Nuys Blvd Suite 400. Donations will be accepted between Sept. 12-16.

Non-perishable food items include canned foods, rice, oatmeal, boxed cereals, boxed breakfast bars, and boxed pasta. 

Students at will also be participating, with the class collecting the most donations receiving a Happy Meal lunch party courtesy of Steve Ho, owner of the in Encino and Tarzana.

Vahid Khorsand, treasurer of the San Fernando Valley Jaycees and vice president of the Encino Chamber of Commerce believes the food drive will have short term and long term affects.

“With the economic downturn, it’s a really tough time right now for many local families," Khorsand said. "Teaming with a diverse group of businesses and organizations, especially with Hesby Oaks, we hope to not only help people in need, but also encourage people to help out when they can.”