We can all be thankful for generous people

For nearly 30 years, George Annino has shared a simple but incredibly compassionate philosophy: People who have food should share it with people who don't.

It's common sense. That's why it works.

It all started when he was growing up in Brooklyn, N.Y., and more years ago than George would probably like to admit. George's parents lived by the same words. They hated hunger, and as long as there was food on their table, there was food for others.

Twenty-nine years ago, George Annino launched the Santa Comes to Agoura food drive. People responded favorably and they gave food—or money to buy food—to George and his friends.

He found out something surprising. Despite the area's reputation as well-to-do, there were hungry people in the Conejo Valley/Las Virgenes area. George learned who they were from relatives, friends, schools, churches and temples. Hunger could happen to any family that was hit by an unexpected death, accident, health problem or job loss.

Despite its name, the food drive isn't aligned with any particular religion because George wanted the effort to have universal appeal.

Sadly, this is George's last year of leading the food drive. It's time to pass the torch to younger people. To their credit, the Westlake Village Junior Women's Club has taken the responsibility.

But we must never forget George Annino, the good man who has given so much of himself. He has helped feed thousands of people.

And in doing so, George has helped all of us.

By pointing us in the right direction, our little part of the world is a better place.

Thanks, George, for everything you've done. You've helped us more than we have helped you.