KMPH Fox 26 Central San Joaquin Valley News Source in Fresno, California Entertainment, News, Sports and Weather | Firebaugh faces more layoffs

Firebaugh faces more layoffs

By Norma Yuriar

Firebaugh, Calif.  (KMPH News) — People living in the small Fresno County city of Firebaugh are bracing for more layoffs.  Garguilo Inc. is slashing close to 300 positions.

"This year it's hard... no more work," Delfino Zarate said.

The field worker says for six of his family members — the work stops next month.

"My family worked for this company for maybe four years," Zarate said.

The tomato packing and farming company is one of the city's top employers.  Garguilo officials weren't available for comment, but those who feed the hungry say they are not surprised.

"I know this is huge, but nowadays with everything on the west–side it really doesn't surprise me anymore – the water issue is taking its toll and it's taking everyone with them," Gabriela Romero with Fresno County Economic Opportunities Commission (FCEOC) said.

Firebaugh has one of the highest unemployment rates in the state.  Now with hundreds more out of work, the line at a food distribution later this week could get even longer.

"When I do my distributions, usually I have about 500 families waiting for me when I get there," Romero said.  "So, now we are talking about close to 300 people being laid–off —– that might impact it in a major way because I'm probably going to have close to 800 people, if not more."

Romero says volunteers will hand out food and diapers until everything runs out at Thursday's food distribution in neighboring Mendota.  And with work scarce in western Fresno County – Zarate is exploring other options.  He's taking classes to see if he can find work as a mechanic.

"It's hard for a lot of people," Zarate said.