PRESIDENT AWARD

The President’s Award recognizes an individual, business, organization, agency or food provider that has played a pivotal role in helping advance the mission of the Food Bank.

This year’s recipient of the President’s Award is Bonnie Pereida. Bonnie started her career with Merrill Lynch as a secretary to the manager 54 years ago. Her leadership skills and determination led her on a path to becoming a financial advisor with one of the world’s largest investment firms. Today, Bonnie holds a position of First Vice President working as a Financial Consultant, managing over $150 million in assets. She has become somewhat of a legend at the local Merrill Lynch office, where she is known to her coworkers as "Mother Pereida." After so many years, Bonnie shows no signs of slowing down because she loves what she does.

Bonnie Pereida’s generosity and involvement in our community is legendary. She has always been concerned about the homeless and the poor in our area. Being aware that she would not know how to help them individually; Bonnie made a decision to reach out through organizations that deal with the poor and the homeless. For more than 25 years Bonnie has provided financial support to the Food Bank of Corpus Christi, Metro Ministries and the Good Samaritan Mission. She also helps a couple of people individually and more recently, has added Family Outreach to her monthly donation list. Bonnie’s commitment to help has had a permanent impact in the lives of countless individuals, families and the community at large. Without a doubt, her example serves as a model for the rest of us.

PAST PRESIDENT'S AWARD RECIPIENTS

2008 Betty Turner
2007 The Charity League, Inc.
2006 National Letter Carriers Association
2004 Blue Bell Creameries
2002 Tuloso-Midway R.O.T.C
2001 Barbara Hajek
2000 George Thompson
1999 Nueces County Sheriff ’s Department
1998 H-E-B