I wanted to take a moment to write about a local organization that not only does so much to help feed the hungry on the Monterey Peninsula, but more than many people might realize.

There seems to be this misperception that people on the Monterey Peninsula don't need the services provided by Meals on Wheels because they have money. After speaking with a volunteer and coordinator for the program, I can tell you that there are many seniors struggling to make ends meet.

I am going to post an email I received from the Meals on Wheels program:

Most people think Meals on Wheels only provides meals to seniors. We serve anyone who is over 18 and who can't cook or shop for themselves. Sometimes people come on our program for a short period of time due to health issues, sometimes they are on the program for a very long time.

The Monterey County Dance Community is dedicated to keeping traditional American music and dance alive and thriving, but it's also dedicated to helping people fight hunger.

It will be holding an Empty Bowls Contra Dance to raise money for Ag Against Hunger on Saturday, April 7, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Empty Bowls is an international project to fight hunger.

The Shake Family held their annual Sabu Shake Sr. Memorial Christmas Fundraiser this month  in memory of Sabu Shake Sr., marking the 13th anniversary of his passing. 

Last year, the Shake family in a news release reported an overwhelming response the the holiday fund drive with donations of nearly $50,000.  They said they hope to exceed that amount this year by raising $75,000.

" We still need your help," said Karen Rodriguez in a news release. "I was happy to report that in 10 days we received over $32,000 which is nearing the halfway mark of this year’s goal."

Over the past several years, this holiday drive raised well over $850,000 for the benefit of the Salvation Army for the Monterey Peninsula.

You can help by writing a check to Salvation Army and mailing it to Old Fisherman’s Grotto, P.O.