Nonprofit Feeding 25,000 SoCal Children Weekly Treats Underprivileged Youth as SNAP Cuts Spur Hunger Spike
A freak “snow storm” recently hit Anaheim, Calif.—just in time for 300 “motel kids” and other underprivileged youths to experience their first winter wonderland. The event was staged by Caterina’s Club, the nonprofit known for feeding 25,000 Southern California children every week.
The grounds of the historic Anaheim White House, the landmark mansion owned by Sir Bruno Serato, founder of the nonprofit, were transformed into a snowy playground using 15 tons of snow that let the kids enjoy sledding, snowball fights, and building snowmen. Festivities included appearances by Frosty the Snowman, Princess Elsa of Frozen fame, and Santa & Mrs. Claus, who distributed Christmas gifts donated by the Marconi Automotive Museum. The day ended with an elaborate multi-course dinner that made the kids feel like VIPs.
This year’s celebration carried added weight as demand for Caterina’s Club’s food program has surged to record levels due to recent SNAP benefit cuts—intensifying an already serious food-scarcity crisis in this otherwise affluent region, best known as the home of Disneyland and The Real Housewives of Orange County. The nonprofit is in particular need of donations this holiday season to meet the growing demand.
“Few events are as heartwarming and meaningful as our annual Snow Day, as the children—many for the first time—experience the kind of winter more common on the East Coast than here in sunny California,” said Serato, a CNN Hero who has been knighted by both the House of Savoy and the Italian government for his humanitarian work. “As the SNAP cuts have increased the need for our services, we will do everything in our power to meet it.” Caterina’s Club operates entirely on donations, which may be made by visiting www.caterinasclub.org
Situated in a historic national landmark mansion dating to 1909, the restaurant offers a broad menu of northern Italian fare including prime-grade steaks and fresh seafood, wide number of pasta dishes, an extensive wine list, unparalleled service and an elegant setting to create an extraordinary dining experience. With its close proximity to Disneyland, the dining establishment has become a favorite destination for tourists, locals and dignitaries visiting the park. Among the luminaries from the worlds of entertainment, sports and politics are Madonna, David Beckham, Gwen Stefani, Andrea Bocelli, Wolfgang Puck, Derek Jeter, Oscar de la Hoya, as well as several US presidents and royalty.
Caterina’s Club feeds hungry children, finds permanent housing for families in need, and trains at-risk youth for careers in the hospitality industry. For his work, he has earned international publicity including profiles in People Magazine and has appeared on countless TV news and talk shows including “The Drew Barrymore Show,” “Access Hollywood,” “CBS Evening News” and “NBC Nightly News.” Among his many honors: CNN Hero, knighted by the Italian government and the House of Savoy, Ellis Island Medal of Honor, papal blessing from Pope Francis, humanitarian award on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, and numerous proclamations, Man of the Year awards and other forms of recognition — all of which he accepts to generate public awareness of Caterina’s Club.
Anaheim White House is located at 887 South Anaheim Blvd., in Anaheim, Orange County. To make reservations or for more information, call (714) 772-1381 or visit www.anaheimwhitehouse.com.
