Staff Report

Cox Communications is helping feed families in Santa Barbara County through the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County with a $25,000 donation from The James M. Cox Foundation. The grant will support local families in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“A gift like this one is a huge help to the foodbank as we implement many initiatives outlined in our countywide Disaster Feeding Plan, as well as the many innovative approaches we’re adopting as we navigate the Covid-19 crisis,” said Erik Talkin, CEO of Foodbank of Santa Barbara County. “For a response that will likely last for many months and beyond, Cox is helping us ensure the health of the county for the duration.”  

The James M. Cox Foundation is the charitable arm of Cox Enterprises and the parent company of Cox Communications. In response to the growing strain on feeding the community, the foundation announced a $25,000 donation to support people in need where Cox lives and works.  

“We are so proud to support the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County and the incredible work they are doing to support our communities during this pandemic,” said Kirsten McLaughlin, market vice president, Cox Communications. “Since March 7, the Foodbank has delivered 77,000 pounds of food each week, which is double the amount of food from the same period in 2019. As school and workplace closures make access to nutritious food even more challenging, these children and working families need our help now more than ever. We are thrilled to enable such a great partner to ensure the needs of our community are met during this challenging time.”

For more information on how to receive meals from the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County or how you can support them with time, talent or treasure during this critical time, visit www.foodbanksbc.org.