Fresno, California, is facing a growing challenge as more people seek help but resources are diminishing. According to Zack Darrah, CEO of Poverello House, “More people are coming in, and we have fewer resources to serve them.”
This year has been particularly tough for local organizations like the Central California Food Bank and Poverello House. They’ve received less funding while witnessing an unprecedented rise in requests for assistance. Darrah noted that their Thanksgiving meal program saw over a 20% increase in attendees this year alone.
In a positive turn, the Lifelong Learning Administration Corporation (LLAC) made a notable first-time donation of $15,000 to both organizations. Skip Hansen, the co-founder of LLAC, emphasized the alignment of their mission with that of Poverello House and the Food Bank. He stated, “Many students are dealing with homelessness and hunger. It’s become an epidemic in recent years.”
This funding directly translates to meals. Poverello House estimates using this donation to provide around 3,000 meals, while the Food Bank anticipates serving about 60,000 meals. Natalie Caples, co-CEO of the Food Bank, expressed how crucial this support is for expanding their programming.
Looking ahead, both Darrah and Caples believe that 2026 may bring even more challenges. They hope for continued community support as the need grows. Darrah summarized their outlook, saying, “We know more people will come through these doors, and we need the community’s help.”
This situation highlights a broader trend. According to a study by Feeding America, food insecurity in the U.S. has risen by about 50% since 2020, fueled by economic changes and the lingering effects of the pandemic. Many families are finding it difficult to make ends meet, prompting more individuals to seek help from food banks and shelters.
As community members, both organizations encourage those interested in supporting their efforts to consider volunteering or donating year-round. This grassroots support can make a substantial difference for those in need.
For more information on supporting these vital organizations, visit the Central California Food Bank and Poverello House.
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Poverello House, Central California Food Bank receives critical $15K donation from CA nonprofit, timely, 18296352
