Big Day Of Giving Raises More Than $3M For 400 Organizations In Sacramento Region

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — Sacramento, once known as a community that didn't give as much to charity as most major cities, is attempting to reverse that trend with the Big Day of Giving.

The Placer SPCA is one of nearly 400 organizations taking part in the event in the Sacramento region to promote charity donations.

"This is a fantastic day to give to the communities," said Cathie Meyers. "Every little bit helps, whether it's $10 that will provide enrichment toys for the animals or it's $100 that is for special types of food."

The day has already exceeded last year's event, raising $3 million on Tuesday compared to $500,000 a year ago.

Organizers had set a goal of collecting $1 million across Yolo, Placer, El Dorado and Sacramento counties. That goal was met by lunch.

"We are just thrilled with all of the turnout and generous support of the community," said Veronica Blake with the Placer Community Foundation.

Lesser known nonprofits like The Alchemist in Sacramento may not survive without the extra attention from the event.

"We barely scrape by. We are frugal," said executive director Davida Douglas, "We do a lot with a little bit of money we have but that just means the more money we get we can do really big things."

The group helps low-income families buy fruits and vegetables from local farmers in hopes of encouraging a healthier lifestyle. Douglass says each day she has stories of the program's success.

"A gentleman came over and said since he's been able to use his CalFresh benefits at the farmers market he's lost 100 pounds," she said.