Volunteers delivered food to more than 70 struggling families in Fresno County’s most impoverished community this week, just in time for Thanksgiving,
Over three tons of fresh and non-perishable food was collected over the past several weeks for distribution in Mendota, where recent census data shows half the population lives below the poverty line.
The effort was organized by Fresno non-profit Alliance for Medical Outreach & Relief, which has an ongoing presence in the rural west Fresno County community. AMOR recently broke ground on 20,000 square foot Wellness Center in Mendota that will offer health services and other resources in the underserved area.

Food Insecurity a Concern During Holidays

“These families are usually dependent on schools to feed their children at least 2 meals a day,” said AMOR spokesperson Stephanie Torralva. “While school is out for Thanksgiving break and kids are at home, more families experience food insecurity.”
Various departments within the County of Fresno participated in the food collection and distribution, along with local businesses and community organizations.
Each family received about 100 pounds of food, including fresh chicken and beef, according to AMOR Executive Director Daveena Witcher.
“We’re really grateful for the collaboration and for everyone stepping up to do their piece to help our rural communities thrive,” she said.
(Video by Jamie Ouverson/GV Wire)