SAN DIEGO (KGTV) -- It’s a simple concept turned into an important mission during the coronavirus pandemic.
A local nonprofit is raising money and using the proceeds to buy meals in bulk from San Diego-area restaurants to feed front line workers.
The group is called FLAG San Diego. FLAG stands for Front-Line Appreciation Group. The original ‘FLAG’ group began in New Jersey amid the pandemic, but it soon sparked several chapters across the country.
Christa Gallego started the FLAG San Diego chapter on April 9.
He said as of Monday, they’ve raised $23,146 and delivered 3,740 meals.
“Placing large orders at one time with restaurants is valuable right now,” Gallo said. “Keeping these big orders, like 600 meals at a time, is valuable.”
Last week, they had a focus on nurses, and this week they are focused on delivering meals to police stations across the county. Next week, it will be lifeguards.
“We want to get out to grocery store workers, delivery guys, we’ve been trying to get out to truckers,” she told 10News.
There are nearly 80 restaurants that have said they are interested in participating. They raise money through crowdfunding, which was strong initially, but has slowed to some degree. Donations are accepted through their website.
“I’ve been living by the mantra that we can do hard things. Everyone can, you, me anyone,” Gallego said.