Stockton – At its meeting on Tuesday, December 12, the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors approved a $10,600 District Five funding request on behalf of Tracy Interfaith Ministries for year-end holiday needs to help the less fortunate in our community.  The request was based on their needs for the holiday season, including perishable food purchases and gifts for children they serve. 

“Tracy Interfaith Ministries in an excellent partner in our work to help those in need,” commented Board Chairman Robert Rickman, who represents the Fifth Supervisorial District including Tracy.  “Partnerships like these allow community-based and faith-based organizations to serve the less fortunate in a way that is in keeping with their values and supports the work of county safety-net programs.  These groups have been heavily impacted by inflation and an increase in demand, and I am thankful that the Board has supported my request to assist this group with their year-end needs.”

In addition to the donations of goods received, Tracy Interfaith must make weekly purchases of food, staples, and hygiene items, which average $1,300 weekly. Tracy Interfaith requested funding assistance for two weeks this holiday season. During the holidays, Tracy Interfaith partners with Brighter Christmas to provide gifts for children and gift cards for teens. Based on a three-year average, Tracy Interfaith expects they will need 320 gift cards this holiday season.

“The holidays are a time of giving and a reminder to help vulnerable populations in our communities,” continued Chairman Rickman.  “I want to encourage individuals, businesses and organizations in our county to remember the great need and the good work of organizations like Tracy Interfaith and donate generously to help those in need.”

Tracy Interfaith Ministries is a nonprofit volunteer-run organization based in Tracy, that provides food and clothing to low-income and homeless families and individuals. Tracy Interfaith is currently serving 100-120 families daily, an increase of at least 65% from this same time last year.

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The Board of Supervisors is the governing body of San Joaquin County and serves more than 779,000 residents. The Board establishes County policies, passes local ordinances, approves the budget, sets local tax rates, supports community programs, and provides many other essential services.