With the economy in a tailspin, more San Diegans than ever are finding times tougher than normal with fewer resources to fall back on. Charitable giving is down and corporations are watching their bottom lines. But San Diego musicians continue to gather whenever there is a chance to help out a good cause. A case in point is the “Rock Fights Hunger Food Drive” event taking place Sunday, Feb. 15 at Winston’s. Organized by singer-songwriter Sandi Shaner, the concert will feature seven of the area’s best-known female performers, including Veronica May, Chelsea Flor, Brooklyn Mack, Allegra Barley, Lindsay White, Candice Graham and Siren’s Lure. Admission to the event is a bag of nonperishable food, which will ultimately be distributed to several Lutheran churches throughout San Diego County. Shaner’s inspiration for the event is personal. “It began when several of my friends, family members and church members had lost their jobs,” she said. “I started off really poor in life and know how this type of economy affects the lower-level-income families. I used to be the one going to the churches for food. I decided it is time to give back to the community that so freely gave to me.” According to Shaner, it wasn’t difficult to get other local musicians interested in putting together a show drawing attention to San Diego’s hungry and gathering donations at the same time. “The music community in San Diego responded very quickly,” said Shaner. “All of the performance spots were filled within 24 hours.” Mack, also a singer-songwriter, wanted to be involved because of past personal hardships. Originally from Utah, her move to San Diego was rougher than she expected. “As close as I got to hunger and homelessness myself when I made the transition, it’s all I can do to want to help those in need,” Mack said. “I only wish I could do more.” Sheri Stoltzfus, Siren’s Lure guitarist, agreed. “These are really hard times and they are hitting more people than ever,” Stoltzfus said. “We all need to do what we can to help out our neighbors. Bad things happen to good people and everyone needs a little help from time to time.” Flor is also succinct about the situation. “Living in Ocean Beach and observing my community, it seems to be a safe haven for the homeless,” said Flor. “Many have lost their jobs and have sought the help of their churches for solace. I look around and I say to myself how lucky I am to have a job and to have the ability to give back.” In keeping with the show’s theme, each artist will perform a song dealing with the issues of homelessness and hunger. Shaner considers it very important for music to have a message. “Lyrics are what connect us to the songwriter,” said Shaner. “I think you will hear some amazing stories when you come to the show.” For Flor, the idea of musicians helping in any hour of need is only natural. “Music is the common fabric of this community,” Flor said. “When it comes from your heart, you know you are having a positive effect. You can see it in the audience’s eyes, facial expressions and the gratitude they express. (Music still) has the power to transform, heal the emotions and inspire change.” Mack agreed, noting that musicians by nature tend to live on the edge when it comes to finances. “Many musicians have been close to poverty themselves, and there’s something magical about a musical community that brings out the best in each other at the worst of times,” Mack said. “Music not only moves you, but since the dawn of man, it’s been a way to bring people together, and that’s what makes the difference. Together, people can and will move mountains,” she said. The “Rock Fights Hunger Food Drive” takes place at Winston’s, 1921 Bacon St. on Sunday, Feb. 15. from 1:30 to 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.winstonsob.com.