Pajaro Valley Loaves and Fishes Inc

PVLF operates three primary programs that together address food insecurity and strengthen community well-being:1.Hot Lunch Program:PVLF provides a complete, freshly prepared noontime meal five days a week, including holidays. Meals include salads, vegetables, fruits, breads, and protein sources such as meat, beans, or eggs. Most ingredients are provided by the USDA, Second Harvest Food Bank, and local donors.During the fiscal year, PVLF served approximately 25,000 meals to hungry individuals, an additional 2,000 meals to staff, volunteers, and trainees, and nearly 5,000 second helpingstotaling over 32,000 hot meals. These meals reduce hunger and provide consistent nutrition for vulnerable neighbors.2.Pantry Program:PVLFs pantry distributes groceries three days each week, offering fresh produce, protein, and culturally appropriate staples. In total, the pantry provided more than 425,000 meals equivalent throughout the year. During the holidays, PVLF provides bountiful boxes of chicken, ham, sliced turkey, pistachios, dried fruits, fresh vegetables, and hearty canned goods. Over 500 households (about 2,000 individuals) receive holiday food boxes each year.3.Community Support and Volunteer Engagement:PVLF collaborates with agencies including the County Health Services Agency, Homeless Persons Health Project, Dignity Health Mobile Outreach, Community Action Board, and Second Harvest Food Bank to connect program participants with health care, mental-health support, nutrition education, and application assistance for Medi-Cal and CalFresh. PVLF also provides referrals for immigration, housing, and utility assistance as needed.Over 300 volunteers contributed more than 14,000 hours of service, the equivalent of seven full-time employees. Volunteer opportunities are offered for students and adults seeking community service hours, job training, or personal fulfillment. In partnership with community agencies, PVLF provides placements for unemployed or under-employed youth and adults, individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and adults transitioning from the CalWORKS program to gain work experience and re-enter the workforce.Together, these programs foster health, stability, and community connection for thousands of residents across southern Santa Cruz and northern Monterey Counties.