California American Water Teams with Assemblymember Martin Garrick for “Operation Gobble”

California Assemblymember Martin Garrick and California American Water distributed 140 turkeys to local non-profits in the cities of Oceanside, San Marcos and Encinitas* on Tuesday, November 22, as part of the 21st annual “Operation Gobble” program.

Operation Gobble is a joint philanthropic venture between California water companies and local state legislators that is set to deliver an estimated 30,000 turkeys to struggling families throughout the state this Thanksgiving holiday.

Since 1990, the program has paired the resources of the private and public sectors to benefit those in need. Participating investor-owned water companies, such as California American Water, provide turkeys and delivery services in partnership with local elected officials who assist in directing the donations to community food banks, churches and other non-profit organizations.

“There are a number of families hit hard by a weak economy and the ‘Operation Gobble’ program will assist those who need it most,” said Assemblymember Garrick. “Through the generosity of California American Water, it is gratifying to know that local families will enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.”

California American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), provides high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 600,000 people. California American Water’s San Diego County service district includes approximately 21,000 households and businesses and serves a population of about 95,000 people in the cities of Coronado, Imperial Beach, south Chula Vista, and parts of south San Diego.

Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 15 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.

In 2011, American Water is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a year long campaign to promote water efficiency and the importance of protecting water from source to tap. To learn more, visit www.amwater125.com.

* Operation Gobble program participants in North County include Community Resource Center, Interfaith Community Services and North County Food Bank. For more information, contact the district office of Assemblyman Martin Garrick at 760-929-7998.