The Calpine Corporation gave $10,000 in response to Supervisor Federal Glover’s appeal for donations to the Contra Costa Food Bank during these tough economic times.

“Calpine, as a member of the East County community, is always generous when it comes to helping our residents,” said Glover. “Calpine is a prime example of corporate responsibility by giving back to the community.”

During the Jan. 4 presentation at the food bank headquarters in Concord, Karri Campbell, Calpine’s business manager, said that the donation is part of his company’s efforts to connect with the community.

Supervisor Glover pointed out that the energy producer, which operates plants in Antioch and Pittsburg, also pays for the supervisor’s annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway. Last year, Glover was able to give away 750 free turkeys throughout his district. Calpine employees volunteered to haul the turkeys to various distribution agencies.

According to Larry Sly, executive director of the Food Bank, “People who used to earn in the six figures are now standing in line because they chose to stay near family when their job was moved or eliminated and they haven’t been able to find work.”

“Our Food Bank has clearly seen the impact of the recession,” said Glover. “Over 89,000 Contra Costa residents a month must now use the Food Bank – an increase of 63 percent in three years, and 28 percent of those being helped are children.

“We’re grateful to Calpine for stepping up to the plate once again,” said Glover.