Friday's Sheriff Event at Bianchini's Market Takes on Special Meaning

Be forewarned that San Mateo County Sheriff's  deputies may want to ask you some questions on Friday … namely, "paper or plastic?"

The first annual "Bagging for Bucks" fundraiser, benefiting the Special Olympics of Northern California, gives customers at Bianchini's Market in both San Carlos and Portola Valley the chance to be greeted by uniformed personnel, who will bag their groceries with a smile  and collect much needed funds for the Special Olympics of Northern California.

"This seemed like a great way to raise funds alongside a local business who makes a habit of supporting the community," said Todd Finato, the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Deputy behind this event. "Traditionally we raise funds for the Special Olympics with our Tip-a-Cop event. This year, I thought, why not generate funds and entertain shoppers by acting as courtesy clerks in a grocery store?  Law enforcement agencies had done this in other counties with great success."

At the "Bagging for Bucks" event, Bianchini's Market shoppers will have an opportunity to donate by tipping their uniformed deputy/courtesy clerks, placing change in collection jars, or offering a donation with their shopping transaction.

In addition, deputies will be allowing kids to explore the many Sheriff’s Office vehicles which will be on hand, posing for pictures, and passing out child fingerprinting and safety kits.

 Proceeds will benefit the funds needed to support the myriad Special Olympics programs which serve youth and adult athletes with disabilities.

"We have a longstanding relationship with the Sheriff’s Office in San Mateo County," said Kevin Bianchini, owner of Bianchini’s Market and a retired Woodside fire fighter. "We make it a priority to support their work whenever possible."

The "Bagging for Bucks" event will run between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m . on Friday at Bianchini’s Market in San Carlos at 810 Laurel Street and at Bianchini’s Market Portola Valley, 3130 Alpine Road in the Ladera Shopping Center.

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