On Saturday, Fresno Mission and the Central California Food Bank hosted their fourth annual One Table Fresno at the City Center, an event designed to bring the community together through a shared meal and critical support services.

This year’s event highlighted the power of unity, as individuals from all walks of life came together to share a meal and uplift those in need.

The event served an estimated 4,500 hot steak meals, distributed over 4,000 new coats, and handed out 1,200 turkeys to families ahead of the holiday season.

Despite the rain, some attendees waited in line for as long as 16 hours to get the services provided. “The heartbreaking part is that people are in such dire situations …  they’re willing to wait in line for 16 hours,” said Matthew Dildine, CEO of Fresno Mission.

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Beyond the meal, the event featured activities for children, gifts from Santa, and support from over 500 volunteers. Community leaders, including Mayor Jerry Dyer and local representatives, also participated in serving meals, showcasing the collective spirit of the occasion.

“We’ve flipped the traditional fundraising dinner model on its head,” said Kym Dildine of the Central California Food Bank. “Sponsors come to serve the fanciest meals to our neighbors.”

The success of One Table Fresno has inspired similar events on the West Coast, a testament to its message of unity and hope. As Dildine noted, “It’s great to see this message of bringing communities together extend beyond Fresno.”

Perea Joins Operation Gobble to Distribute 1,000 Turkeys to Families

On the same day, Fresno City Council President Annalisa Perea participated in Operation Gobble, where she helped distribute 1,000 turkeys to families at Steinbeck Elementary School.