MATTAWA - Holtzinger Fruit Co has stepped up big to assist the Mattawa Area Food Bank by paying the monthly building expenses for this year.

"Holtzinger is really doing a wonderful thing, and we feel our community should know that," Mattawa Food Bank board member Robin Curtis said.

Saturday, Feb. 23, from 12-3 p.m., is the regular distribution day. The Food Bank address is 23898 T.2 SW, Mattawa.

Holtzinger's move was more than help to the food bank. It was a signal that the company cares more about farm workers than only as employees.

"As an advocate for all independent apple growers," said President, David Lawrence, "we are committed to improving the lives of our farm workers and our community. Helping the Mattawa Area Food Bank provide food improves the lives of agricultural workers. These folks are very important to the health and vitality of the Washington apple industry. Their health is our health."

It is one of Holtzinger's goals to do something each quarter specifically to help apple farm workers. In November, at the Holtzinger end-of-season party, the company awarded $10,000 in cash prizes to pickers who filled Holtzinger bins.

"We know how hard these folks work, and this is our way of saying 'thank you,'" Lawrence said.

Holtzinger Fruit Company was founded in the Yakima Valley by Charles M. Holtzinger in 1908.