Disney VoluntEARS Lend Helping Hands With Power Of One Donation

ANAHEIM, CA — Anaheim families have been hurting in 2020, amid the global coronavirus pandemic, the Disneyland Resort closure, and the ripple effect both have had on area businesses and restaurants. With so many out of work, businesses shuttered, and a town that typically is synonymous with the "Happiest Place on Earth" is shielded by masked smiles.

On Tuesday, the Disneyland Resort VoluntEARS gathered to shower support on the Power of One Foundation. Cast Members shared the love in the drive-through donation to help 1,500 Anaheim families— including furloughed Cast Members—have a holiday this year.

The event donated dry goods, fresh foods, pantry items, meal kits, diapers, plush toys, books, baby food, and more.

Shawnee Witt, a spokesperson for The Power of One, reflected on the many helping hands from the Disney VoluntEARS.

"On behalf of Power of One Foundation, it was our great honor to collaborate with Disneyland Resort and other partners on Monday," Witt said. "It was our foundations last night event of a very full 2020."

The Disneyland Resort has made substantial food donations to local food bank partners, including Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County and Orange County Food Bank, during the prolonged closure amid the coronavirus pandemic.

In response to Governor Newsom’s most recent regional stay home order in Southern California, nearly 20 tons of food was donated after restaurants' closures throughout the Downtown Disney District.

"This holiday season, during a time when unemployment continues to rise due to the impacts of COVID-19, every donation to a family in need counts," a Disneyland spokesperson said.

Since the closure of its theme parks in March, the Disneyland Resort has donated more than 200 tons of food to be distributed to those in need throughout Orange County. They have also donated personal protection equipment to area hospitals in need during the closure.

The Power of One wanted to make sure the city knows they aren't going anywhere in the coming year and will continue to show what just one person can do to make a difference in others' lives. According to Witt, they "will continue to be here for our families who need support in 2021."