Turlock teen Manveer Parmar set out in July with a goal to collect as much food for the needy as he could through the U CAN Food Drive. When the drive ended on Aug. 25, the results exceeded his expectations. Turlock came together to donate 1,000 nonperishable food items, which were donated to the United Samaritans Foundation to be used to feed the city’s less fortunate. What started as a simple idea in his living room turned into a massive project he hopes can help those affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

“It means a lot to see a huge amount of donations for the food drive. I knew I would receive a good amount, but never did I expect nearly 1,000,” Parmar said. “I'm really proud of the community and how everyone came together to help a common cause. Without them, this drive would not have succeeded.”