COVID-19 has not slowed down longtime Stockton resident and local philanthropist Paul Fairbrook from his annual Christmastime fund drive. At 97, Fairbrook continues his yearly tradition of raising money and purchasing bus passes to provide transportation for clients at St. Mary’s Dining Room, the Women’s Center, The Community Partnership for Families, and the Family Resource and Referral Center.

As supporters and advocates of St. Mary’s Dining Hall since 1982, Paul and Peig Fairbrook began their Christmastime fund drive when he learned about the lack of transportation options for many of St. Mary’s clients. With the help of over 50 family members and friends giving between $30 to $300, Fairbrook collected over $2730 to purchase nearly 2000 bus passes that will help those in need get to essential places like medical, social security, unemployment, and naturalization offices.

The Christmastime fund drive began with just their family members, collecting about $500 in the beginning. Alex Bianchi joined their efforts, and he is responsible for delivering the bus passes to the above organizations.

“We are inspired by Paul and Peig Fairbrook’s efforts each year to care for those in need,” said RTD CEO Gloria Salazar. “Our community needs more acts of kindness especially this year.”

For anyone interested in providing additional funds for this project, they can contact RTD at (209) 943-1111.

San Joaquin Regional Transit District (RTD) is the regional transit provider for San Joaquin County. RTD’s mission is to provide a safe, reliable, and efficient transportation system for the region. For more information, visit sjRTD.com, follow RTD on Facebook and Twitter, or call (209) 943-1111.