Our Agency helped 500 western Fresno County families today during a food drive in Mendota. Residents, who have been affected by the drought and economic downturn, stood in line for hours to receive a box of food that included: 2.5 pounds of beans, rice, and macaroni; poultry; ground turkey; juice; chicken bullion; chili powder; mayonnaise; cereal; snacks; and fresh vegetables. Del Monte Foods also contributed spaghetti sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and stewed tomatoes.

Another food drive, scheduled for Saturday afternoon, will give residents of Tranquility, San Joaquin, Cantua Creek, and Three Rocks the opportunity to receive a free box of food. The event will be held at Cantua Creek Child Development Center located at 29596 W. Latta Avenue in Cantua Creek. Food will be distributed between 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. The event is only open to residents in those communities. All participants must provide proof of residence.

These food drives are made possible by corporate and individual donations made to our Crisis Relief Fund. Established in 2008, our Crisis Relief Fund helps Fresno County residents affected by natural disasters. Donations can be made online at www.eoccrisisrelieffund.org.