PACIFIC GROVE, Calif., Nov. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- California State Senator Abel Maldonado and California American Water will distribute 400 turkeys to the Monterey County Food Bank, Salvation Army and Boys and Girls Club of Monterey County on Tuesday, November 24, as part of the 19th 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 at-risk 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 offer expertise in directing the donations to community food banks, churches and other non-profit organizations.

"This program raises awareness of the issue of hunger in California while helping those who need it most," said Senator Maldonado. "This year more than ever, it is important we all help to ensure every Californian can be glad in this season of Thanksgiving."

According to the latest study of the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research on hunger, 2.9 million Californians lack sufficient resources to feed themselves on a regular basis. Many of these residents are low income families that will not be able to afford a Thanksgiving meal.

California American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK - News), provides high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to more than 600,000 people.

Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest investor-owned 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 32 states and Ontario, Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com