Food drive hauls in the good for local advocates

An estimated 15,000 pounds of food was collected by 3 p.m. Friday for a local advocacy group.

The annual "Share Your Holiday" food drive was held at the Governor's Mansion to benefit the work of Advocates to End Domestic Violence in Carson City.

The group helps victims of domestic violence by providing basic shelter and food. Donations will remain in the city, organizers said.

"It was huge," said Lisa Lee, director for the organization. "We're very happy about the generosity of our community. We really could not operate our programs if Carson City was not so giving."

Rotarians came early to drop off food and help with the collection throughout the day. Food was collected from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. with cars were still streaming through late Friday afternoon.

Gov. Kenny Guinn made his donation and a speech during the day. Santa Claus also helped greet drivers.

Among the donations was Harley-Davidson Financial Group, which donated $2,000, and many other people who gave cash. The money will be used to purchase meat, produce, milk and other supplies during the year.

The organization provides a shelter with 51 beds for women and children who are victims of domestic violence.

The group helps more than 200 people a year with shelter, 700 with obtaining restraining orders through the courts and more than 700 with counseling and other services, Lee said.