Train enthusiasts climbed aboard the 20th annual Garden Railroad Tour Aug. 16, not only to get their fill of model railroads, but to help those in need as well.
The Bay Area Railroad Society and South County Railroaders event raises food and money split between two local organizations: St. Joseph’s Family Center in Gilroy and the Community Pantry in Hollister.
Eight area families, including residents of Gilroy, Hollister and Morgan Hill, opened their homes, allowing children and adults an up close view of elaborate model railroads set among towns and trees, logging companies and waterfalls. Attendees donated non-perishable food or money at stops along the tour and enjoyed a day of choo-chooing entertainment.