For many years, members and friends of the Immaculate Conception Church have given their time and energy to help with the Dinner Hour ministry, and most recently the food distribution program. In many cases, these dedicated individuals come on a weekly basis to unload, sort out, package and distribute food supplies to more than 1,500 people who need a little help in supporting their families. “We appreciate all of our church volunteers,” says Pete Zavala, one of the program leaders, who elaborated, “it’s important that we recognize their contribution.”
Early in the week, several volunteers pick up food from various locations who supply food items. On Wednesdays, the full group of volunteers arrive early to the church to sort out, package and set-up the food in a well-organized line for distribution. By the time everything is set-up, the volunteers are at their stations ready for the guests who come to pick up food. Many people from the public walk-up, while hundreds of cars pull-up from the street to enter the drive-thru operation.
“There is certainly a lot to set-up our food distribution,” commented Daisy Campos, a regular attendee who comes early to help organize the volunteers. On any given day, helpers are also needed for the walk-up service line, and more are stationed directing the cars which line up in front of the church. “This program has grown quite a bit, especially in recent months, and volunteers are always needed, and very much appreciated,” explained Angela Wilkinson, one of the first volunteers on duty to direct the cars. From the volunteers who come, some help every week, while others come when they can.
The purpose of the ceremony was to show appreciation to all of the volunteers who helped in 2023. Approximately 29 individuals were recognized in the Wed. morning ceremony just after the food distribution was complete as all equipment was put away. Dr.G, Council Member, food program assistant, and community volunteer made the presentation as part of the CITY TALK “Community Impact” award program.
The individuals recognized were; Carlos Alamilla, Marco Artiaga, David Bautista, Doug Blinkinsop, Daisy Campos, Margarita Campos, Mary Cimental, Cristina Cortez, Silvia Cortez, Sonia de la Luz, Pino Espudo, Angel Florez, Guadalupe Gomez, Bruno Gutierrez, Chris Gutierrez, Mario Gutierrez, Delia Hernandez, Lucy Juarez, Kenny Kiddo, Daniel Lujan, Gilbert Maquinales, Sandra Martinez, Norma Mejia, Brian Torres, Laura Reyes, Eloy Sanchez, Fe Valenzuela, Angela Wilkenson, and Pete Zavala.
The City of Colton is fortunate to have a church that is so engaging with the community, and the growth and participation really shows it is “sharing the good news” in a way that brings people together. This church has been a blessing. The address is 1106 N La Cadena Dr. Weekend masses are Sat. 8:00am (English), 6:00pm (Spanish), Sun. 8:30am, 10:00am, and 6:00pm (English), and 7:00am, 12:00pm, and 2:00pm (Spanish). Contact Church office @ 909-825-5110.
For more information about CITY TALK, various community groups, Colton history, the trash clean-up project, the G-Team, prayer list, history briefs, Veteran Spotlight, Church Spotlight, Business Spotlight, U.S. Flag Watch, neighborhood meetings, community projects and events, or the online live-stream programs, contact Dr.G @ 909-213-3730. Questions and comments are always welcome.