Last Saturday, food bank leaders, local politicians, and community members gathered at the Little Lake Grange in Willits for an “emergency town hall.” The discussion focused on how to support residents of Mendocino County facing uncertain funding for food programs.
Claudia Wenning, a local health expert, shared resources for low-income families dealing with food insecurity. Attendees had the chance to ask questions, making the event interactive and informative.
Sergio Perez, the executive director of Nuestra Alianza de Willits, emphasized the role of his organization’s food pantry. Serving about 70 families each month, the pantry provides essential nonperishable food items to those in need. Perez explained, “We aim to help those who can’t afford food on their own. Our food bank is an emergency resource.”
Alongside food issues, the town hall also addressed housing instability. Carolyn Ponikvar, from the Willits Shelter Action Group, described a motel program that offers temporary housing for the homeless. “We provide two nights in a hotel,” she noted, allowing people to rest and clean up.
3rd District Supervisor John Haschak highlighted the need for the community to come together during challenging times. He remarked, “With cuts to federal social programs, our community will likely face more struggles. It’s crucial that we find local solutions.” Expert predictions suggest that food insecurity will rise as inflation continues to impact household budgets across the U.S. In fact, recent statistics show that nearly 1 in 8 Americans are experiencing food insecurity, a number that has increased since the pandemic.
Community members looking for help can explore various local resources. Visit this link for a list of food banks and social services available in Mendocino County. Additionally, you can check out the Mendocino Voice for information on where to find fresh produce in the area: Mendocino Voice.
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food insecurity,John Haschak,Little Lake Grange,Nuestra Alianza de Willits,Willits
