SMUD Sponsors Giving Friday at the State Fair
Jul 13, 2026 01:18PM ● By SMUD News Release
Each year, dozens of SMUD team members and volunteers help make this food drive a success, with last year's efforts collecting over 35,000 pounds of food to help replenish the shelves at area food banks. Photo courtesy of SMUD SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - As part of its ongoing community giving efforts, SMUD is sponsoring Giving Friday at the State Fair, an effort to collect needed items for the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. SMUD Giving Friday will take place on July 17, 24 and 31. On these days, each person who donates five non-perishable, non-expired food items will receive a free ticket to the California State Fair. The first 3,000 people in the gates will also receive a free drawstring backpack. “Giving Friday truly reflects SMUD’s commitment to our community, especially those facing food insecurity,” said SMUD CEO and General Manager Paul Lau. “This year, we’re excited to partner with the Sacramento Food Bank to celebrate their 50th anniversary by giving back to the communities we serve. With rising costs affecting so many families, this partnership offers a meaningful and easy way for neighbors to support each other while enjoying all the fun at the State Fair.” The numbers tell the story. The Sacramento Food Bank is serving more individuals than ever before — over 320,000 people in our region every month. Each item donated helps fill the gap for children, families and seniors who are struggling to put food on the table. Any non-perishable donation makes a difference, but here are some items that are especially helpful.Any non-perishable donation makes a difference, but there are a few items that are especially helpful. These items include dry pasta, macaroni and cheese, rice, peanut butter, canned foods such as vegetables, tomatos, beans, fruit and meat (tuna, chicken, etc.) Other helpful items include oatmeal, cereal boxes, crackers and granola bars, and soups and stews. Donations accepted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at three Cal Expo gates - Main, Blue and Green. Upon entry, visitors can enjoy SMUD swag bags, energy-saving tips and induction cooking demos. SMUD has led successful e-waste, coat, personal care and school supply drives at Cal Expo. These drives have benefited nonprofits such as the Sacramento Children’s Home, the Sacramento Regional Conservation Corps and the Elk Grove Food Bank. For more information about SMUD Giving Friday, visit calexpostatefair.com or smud.org/StateFair. |
