The world may be going through unprecedented changes right now, but one thing that remains constant is the kindness exhibited by the Camarillo Community. From neighbors helping neighbors, to businesses and foundations stepping up to provide for those in the community there has been an outpour of good deeds done throughout this time. Visit Camarillo wants to take the time to highlight a few of these outstanding citizens, businesses, and initiatives.
Camarillo Businesses Unite to Help Farmworkers
Farming and agriculture are embedded in Camarillo’s history and they continue to be a large industry for the city. For instance, our city’s namesake – Adolfo Camarillo was a prominent rancher who grew Lima beans, Walnuts and Citrus for many years and was known to be generous with his farm workers and ranch staff. Recently, the generosity of our local community shined bright through the #FeedingTheFrontline campaign. John Hinojosa, owner of Camarillo’s very own, Ruby’s Fresh Mexican Food & Tequila Bar, and Juan J. Sanjuan, owner of Gloria’s Restaurant in Huntington Beach joined forces to start the “Feeding the Frontline” campaign to provide food, support, and recognition to the thousands of farm workers who are performing essential jobs during the COVID-19 crisis. Many different community members, including celebrity Chef Aaron Sanchez, teamed up to provide free meals to farm workers, as well as boxes of fruits, vegetables, and essential products. Read more about it here: https://www.thecamarilloacorn.com/articles/businesses-unite-to-feed-farmworkers/
World Central Kitchen x Camarillo
World Central Kitchen is a nonprofit that was established to provide food for vulnerable populations and now also serves frontline health care workers in communities. Through their #ChefsforAmerica initiative WCK has connected local businesses with community members to provide nourishing food. Slate Bistro + Craft Bar, Basil and Mint Café & Bar, and Twenty88 Bistro are some of the local businesses that are partnering with WCK to provide food to health care workers and those in need.
Camarillo High School Graduation Parade
Camarillo High School is one of the many high schools around the country that has had to cancel in-person graduation for the senior class of 2020. The community came together to honor the graduates’ accomplishments and implement safety protocols by organizing a parade. The parade featured signs, posters, and car decorations to celebrate the graduating seniors. To read more about this community event and look at pictures click here. https://www.vcstar.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2020/05/03/photos-camarillo-high-students-honored-parade/3073307001/
Photo Credit: Tim Gallagher
Rancho Campana High School’s Prints 3D Face Shields
Rancho Campana High School (located in Camarillo) is one of the forces in the county that is manufacturing personal protective equipment for healthcare workers. Students, volunteers, and community members are joining forces with the nonprofit, STEMbassadors to assemble protective face shields that are distributed throughout local hospitals. Katie Berry, a teacher at Rancho Campana High School, brought home 3D printers from the school to continue her work from home, and donate protective equipment to healthcare workers. She is one of the many individuals that are doing their part to protect those that are protecting the community.
How We Can Continue to Help
Show support by sharing relevant information about a local restaurant, online special or discount on social media. Help spread awareness to your family and friends by letting them know who you are supporting.
Another way to show support is to purchase gift cards to local restaurants. These would make for perfect gifts and can be saved for use in the future.
Have you received amazing service from a local business? Leave a positive online review on Google, Yelp or Tripadvisor and let others know about your experience. Often times, positive reviews can be the tipping point of someone’s purchase decision and feedback helps with that.
Nevertheless, no matter how you choose to help, the most important thing you can do is continue to stay safe by following the safety guidelines implemented by health officials. During these times, it’s important that we all come together to do our part. Now more than ever, local businesses need our help and patronage.