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Chico Community Members Asked to Help Out-of-Work Employees
The spirit of community is alive and well in Downtown Chico! After the destructive fire on Dec. 1st that caused both Tres Hombres and Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shop to close their doors in order to repair major damages, an effort to offer assistance to the employees of both businesses is underway. Between the two businesses, approximately 85 employees were displaced by the fire.
The Downtown Chico Business Association is partnering with “We Are Chico,” a group of students and staff at California State University, to rally community members and is asking for donations of cash or food to help the out-of-work employees.
“Responding to a crisis and helping people in need is what we are all about in Chico,” said Larry Bassow, CSU, Chico staff member. “At Chico State, we have raised money for causes all over the country and world - now we need to focus on our family of students, alums and friends who work across the street from campus. We need to help the employees of Tres Hombres and Mr. Pickle’s make the next few months a little easier with donations from local establishments and the Chico community.”
Several businesses have already pitched in by donating gift cards for meals, coffee and goods - Woodstock’s Pizza, Madison Bear Garden, Bidwell Perk and Coffee on Shasta have all generously offered their support.
“Our hope is to give each employee an envelope from their Chico family with gift certificates, as well as buy gift cards to a local grocery store with the donations made from the campus and community,” said Bassow. He said the group is also looking for other businesses that may have part-time work available for the employees.
Student Ryan Giordano, Associated Students commissioner of community affairs, will be leading a change drive on campus until Dec. 18th. Additional fundraising events, both on campus and throughout town, will be held over the next couple of weeks. Visit the Downtown Chico Facebook page to get updates and learn more.
Those interested in donating can contact the DCBA office at 345-6500 or email with questions. Donations in any amount are welcome - please make checks payable to DCBA with memo “Fire Fund”. All donations should be dropped off at or mailed to the DCBA office by Friday, Dec. 18th.
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