How One Person Can Make a Difference!

Everything starts with a single step. Unless one person starts to talk about hunger or homelessness or injustices of any kind, most of us are unaware of the needs or concerns of others. An example of volunteerism is Pastor Paula Hulet, who has a passion for making a difference. After receiving notice of the Hunger Walk she formed a small team that was very successful raising money in its first year. Her involvement as a walker three years ago, a team planning member last year, current team leader and site coordinator for Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo has opened up other avenues for her to serve the community.  Paula states, "the members of the Morro Bay/Cayucos/Los Osos and the San Luis Obispo walk planning teams are passionate and hardworking making planning fun and easy. " Without our network of volunteers the Food Bank Coalition could not serve the San Luis Obispo County community. 

The Food Bank Coalition administers EFAP, a federally funded program and supplies food once a month to low-income families and individuals of all ages through its USDA Commodities Program. These distributions are held at community centers, churches, senior centers and veteran's halls throughout the county. In July of 2009 this program provided 61,052 lbs. of food to local residents at 24 distribution sites. In July of 2011 we provided 115,182 lbs. of food to over 2,300 residents at 56 USDA distribution sites. 

Currently, we are working with community partners, identifying alternative locations and times to make these resources more accessible to working families who qualify. The economy has impacted our entire county, some more than others. Many are struggling to put a healthy meal on their table, which is why we continually assess the program to ensure that everyone has accessibility.  

Charity Movie Night - YPNG Fundraiser