There has been no shortage of charitable acts to lift the spirits of people around San Diego who are struggling with disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
During his daily press briefing Tuesday, San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer praised Holey Donuts for its small but sweet donation.
“One local bakery that wanted to bring smiles to people's faces,” Faulconer said. "They've donated thousands of donuts to seniors and first responders across our region. And last week, they made a special trip to deliver 500 individually packaged donuts to brighten the day of those that are staying at the San Diego Convention Center."
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Tim Ovies and his business partner Eduardo Martinez opened Holey Donuts in late March, just as social distancing measures forced most businesses to close or severely limit operations. Martinez says the team is taking it in stride.
“As long as you know we are doing a good for the community, that’s all we need," Martinez said.
Holey Donuts delivers unsold inventory daily Father Joe's Villages in downtown San Diego, Ovies said. He was curious about how he could help those dealing with COVID-19. One day he brought his daily donation to Golden Hall and was redirected to the Convention Center, which is now converted as a temporary home for the region's unsheltered population.
“They were ecstatic," Ovies said. "It was so nice to meet the people down there. There are so many groups doing wonderful things.”
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He appreciates the recognition from the city and will continue the daily donations, Ovies said. He estimated more than 7,000 donuts have been given since Holey Donuts opened.
“Even though we’re in El Cajon and he’s the mayor of the city of San Diego it doesn’t matter," Ovies said. "In a time like this, let’s all be together.”
Mayor Faulconer said he would like others to share examples of San Diegans stepping up, by using the hashtag #SanDiegoStepsUp on social media.
