Central California Food Bank Fights Hunger with Record 60M Pounds of Aid

The Central California Food Bank (CCFB) has been tackling hunger in the region for over three decades. Founded in 1992, it now serves as the largest nonprofit dedicated to ending food insecurity across Fresno, Madera, Tulare, Kings, and Kern Counties. Its efforts have a far-reaching impact on local communities. In the past year, CCFB distributed nearly 60 million pounds of food. This supported over 320,000 people each month, including more than 100,000 children. The organisation’s work is critical, as one in four adults and one in three children in Central California face food insecurity.

CCFB runs several key programmes to combat hunger. Groceries2Go, an appointment-based service, recently doubled its capacity and now offers pre-packed groceries at nine sites. The First Fruits Market, Fresno’s first free grocery store, serves over 600 families weekly. Additionally, the food bank partners with schools through School Pantries and a Backpack Program to ensure children have consistent access to meals.

The organisation also collaborates with community initiatives like Fresno Health Zones. These partnerships connect residents to essential health and social services. CCFB’s network includes over 280 member partners, such as schools, churches, and community groups, which help distribute food efficiently.

Every dollar donated to CCFB can provide up to four meals for those in need. This efficiency highlights the organisation’s ability to stretch resources and maximise its impact. CCFB’s extensive reach and programmes address urgent needs in Central California. Its partnerships and efficient use of donations ensure food reaches thousands of families and children. The food bank continues to expand its efforts to reduce hunger across the region.