Grocery Outlet recently presented Oakdale’s Community Sharing with a check for $1149 and a food donation valued at $700. The donations came as a result of the food chain’s annual Independence from Hunger program which is hosted every July. This is the second year the local grocer partnered with Community Sharing as a recipient of the program.

“The community really is the most generous community I’ve ever lived in,” stated owner Kathy LaForce. “Doesn’t matter what their finances are, they give to the community.”

Through the month of July, Outlet checkers were put to the task of asking customers to make a monetary or food item donation on behalf of the project.

According to checker Gabrielle Cardenas, customers were inquisitive as to where the food and/or money would go and how it would benefit local residents. From her own personal experience as a single mother, Cardenas shared she was able to offer reassurance and information on the local need for such a program and donations. Cardenas was the top producing checker in the project, raising $408 of the $1149 which was donated.

Outlet owners Kathy and Carl LaForce indicated this will continue to be an annual event for the North Yosemite market.

Persons interested in supporting or volunteering at Oakdale Community Sharing may do so by calling 847-3401.