100 Fresh Meals Donated by the Simple Greek Restaurant

Costa Mesa, California, December 29, 2020 – Thanks to the generosity of dozens of motivated donors, the holidays are a bit brighter for adults with developmental disabilities served by nonprofit Project Independence of Costa Mesa.

Hundreds of everyday items like towels, socks, games, grooming and sanitation products and more now often in scarce supply for the organization’s clients were wrapped and delivered by its staff. Many of the items came from online visitors to the nextdoor.com website after reading about Project Independence.

Also raising the spirits of Project Independence clients during the holidays were the 100 fresh meals prepared and donated by Vandana and Vineet Unadkat, owners of The Simple Greek restaurant in Fullerton. Vandana previously worked with Project Independence. “Both Vandana and I are very thankful for the opportunity that we are getting to give back to our community through this partnership with Project Independence,” said Unadket.

Though getting together to celebrate was impossible for clients who attend the organization’s day program, this year an online Zoom party brought more than 50 people onscreen for an event with entertainment by DJ Noah, and included raffles for Van’s backpacks donated by Jean Kim, and Target and Amazon $100 and $50 gift cards donated by the Shubin family.

“We were overwhelmed with the donations we received from our generous neighbors that are helping make the holidays brighter for our clients,” said Project Independence CEO and President Debra Marsteller. “Now more than ever, adults with developmental disabilities live with the risk of isolation and loneliness. These gifts are both helpful and hopeful.”

Project Independence is asking members of the public to include the organization in their holiday giving. To donate, visit http://www.proindependence.org/donate-now/

Project Independence has a 40 plus year history of service and stability in Orange County as a lifeline to adults with developmental disabilities who are now at even greatest risk because of the pandemic. The essential workers who comprise the Project Independence staff continue to serve clients despite challenges brought on by COVID-19.

Eighty-seven cents of every dollar raised by Project Independence goes directly to support vital programs for people with developmental disabilities. Charity Navigator rates the organization 100/100.  For additional information, please visit www.proindependence.org