49ers players distribute food, gifts to families in need in Santa Clara
It’s been a good week for the 49ers and their fans — the team clinched a playoff spot Monday and then gave back to families in need on Tuesday.
In a night called “Hope for the Holidays,” the 49ers partnered with U.S. Bank, Second Harvest of Silicon Valley and several nonprofits to give toys, blankets, kitchen supplies and food to around 180 families.
Kids’ eyes lit up as they met and took selfies with some of their favorite players, including Brock Purdy, Nick Bosa, Trent Williams and George Kittle.
49ers quarterback Brock Purdy took selfies with fans as the team distributed boxes of food, kitchen supplies and toys to those families.
Aleah is a San Jose resident and was one of the first people in line with her kids. She said she got to the parking lot of Levi’s Stadium at noon.
“I started my life over almost two years ago with my kids, so it’s been really hard being a single parent living by myself trying to live in Silicon Valley,” Aleah said.
Leslie Bacho, the CEO of Second Harvest of Silicon Valley, said there has been an unprecedented level of need, adding that they’re serving more than half a million people every month.
The team on Tuesday was serving up much needed support and smiles.
“Times aren’t always fantastic for everybody. And the fact that we can just spend a couple of hours of our time to help them out, pack their cars full of supplies they need like toys, presents, food, water, just things for their house — it means a lot just to be helping them out and be part of their families,” Kittle said.
This event comes just two weeks before Christmas and just as the 49ers secure a playoff run.
‘When you have football season, you’re having a good season, you’re spreading Christmas joy, what a great time of the year,’ Kittle said.