Sen. Scott Wilk recognizes High Desert nonprofit, business

High Desert Second Chance Food Bank was recognized as the Senate District 21’s Nonprofit of the Quarter.

Out of the 1,000 High Desert nonprofits, the Hesperia organization was recognized by Sen. Scott Wilk.

High Desert Second Chance Food Bank operates a diverse array of programs, including a home food delivery service for seniors and veterans who are bedbound, on hospice care, disabled, and lack transportation.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, High Desert Second Chance’s food distribution was a lifesaving service for many in the Victor Valley area, according to Wilk.

“The pandemic exposed how prevalent food insecurity is in our society. It’s not just those experiencing homelessness,” he said. “It’s families, single parents, seniors, veterans – people from all walks of life who are struggling to put food on the table.”

A second chance

High Desert Second Chance Food Bank was founded in 2014 as a street ministry by Leana Watson and Greg Hunsaker.

Watson was a single mother of three who faced the challenges of domestic violence and homelessness. She went on to stabilize her family life and eventually earn a bachelor's degree in psychology, with a focus on post-traumatic stress disorder.

In 2016, the organization became the High Desert Food Collaborative with the goal of addressing food insecurity in the region. Since its inception, High Desert Second Chance has become a lifeline for the community, Wilk said

"I am incredibly grateful for their passion, service, and dedication," he added.

High Desert Second Chance also runs a "no food goes to waste" program, addressing food waste and recovery by redirecting non-edible products to local farmers, ranchers, livestock owners, and composters.

"High Desert Second Chance welcomed all those who contributed to this momentous recognition," said Christina Kennedy, High Desert Second Chance president and community relations coordinator. "Their volunteers, the organization's backbone, have been indispensable with their dedication, hard work, and sacrifices. We are here to be of service."

Hitt Plumbing, a 'community staple'

Wilk also recognized Apple Valley-based Hitt Plumbing as Senate District 21’s Small Business of the Month.

“A community staple since the 1960s, the Hitt family epitomizes the importance of small businesses and the role they play in our community,” Wilk said. “Plumbing is not an easy job, but the Hitt family always puts their customers first to ensure quality service and create long-lasting relationships. On top of that, they go out of their way to give back to causes near to their heart without seeking recognition in return.”

Founded in 1964, Hitt Plumbing is one of the oldest plumbing businesses in the High Desert and is still family-run.

In 1977, Chris Hitt took over the business from his father and today his children, Chad, Carrie and CJ, work for the company along with 23 employees.

The company specializes in new construction, remodeling, commercial, industrial, residential, service and repair.

In addition to running a small business, Hitt supports the local Boy Scouts, Little League, and the Sunset Hills Children’s Foundation.

“If it’s for the kids, that’s where our money goes,” Hitt said.

In 2018, Hitt used his equipment to assist in the relocation of Trigger, Roy Roger’s giant replica of his beloved horse, to the Spirit River Center.

This year, he helped fix up the Apple Valley Shriners’ cars so they could participate in the annual Happy Trails Parade held in September.

“Thank you very much to our loyal customers as well as our new customers,” Hitt said. “I would not be where I am today without my team at Hitt Plumbing. Many thanks to my employees.”

Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at 760-951-6227 or RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on Twitter @DP_ReneDeLaCruz

This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Sen. Scott Wilk recognizes High Desert nonprofit, business