Multiple California American Water Offices Team Up with CA Legislators for “Operation Gobble”

Although millions of Californians lack sufficient resources to feed themselves on a regular basis, California American Water employees – and the employees of other water agencies — have partnered with many of the state’s legislators to provide a Thanksgiving meal to those who can’t afford one. “Operation Gobble” is a joint charitable venture between California water companies and local State legislators that deliver thousands of turkeys to under-privileged families throughout the state during the Thanksgiving holiday.

Several legislators in the greater Sacramento area are participating in this Year’s “Operation Gobble.” California State Assemblymember Ken Cooley (D-8^th District-Rancho Cordova) and two water companies serving his district – Golden State Water Company and California American Water – will provide 300 fresh turkeys to local nonprofits as part of the “Operation Gobble” program. Likewise, California State Assemblymember Jim Cooper (D-9^th District-Elk Grove) and California American Water will provide 200 fresh turkeys to local non-profits.

Two other examples of legislators and water companies helping the less fortunate during the Thanksgiving holiday are Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-4^th District-Sacramento) and Sen Jim Nielson (R-4^th District-Roseville). Assemblymember McCarthy has partnered with California American Water to distribute 300 turkeys and Sen. Nielson has worked with California American Water to provide 100 turkeys. Grocery chain Save Mart has made all the turkeys available at cost.

“Operation Gobble” began in 1990, and pairs the local knowledge of state legislators with the resources of the private sector to benefit those in need. More specifically, various water companies provide the turkeys and the transportation (usually to the legislator’s office) and local elected officials offer local expertise in directing the donations to community food banks, churches and other non-profit organizations.

Evan Jacobs, California American Water’s director of regulatory policy and case management, said “This program is an opportunity for us to give back to our community and ensure families in need have a meal this Thanksgiving.”

“Many Americans continue to be in need,” said Sen. Nielsen. “The generosity and hard work of California American Water and its employees, families can gather and enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.”