Fresno Mission and Food Bank Unite for One Table Community Meal

The Fresno Mission and Central California Food Bank are collaborating to host the fifth annual One Table Fresno event, aimed at providing holiday meals to families in need. Scheduled for November 22, 2023, the event will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the City Center located at 2025 E. Dakota Ave. in Fresno. This initiative reflects a collective effort to assist the community by serving 4,500 hot steak meals to those facing food insecurity.

Since its inception in 2021, One Table Fresno has grown into a vital community event in Downtown Fresno. This year, in addition to the meals, the event will distribute 4,500 coats for children and adults, ensuring warmth for families during the colder months. The City Center serves as a hub for various nonprofits, providing essential services to individuals and families in crisis. Earlier in the year, it opened a 73-room housing facility to support those in need.

The mission behind One Table Fresno is to create a space that fosters unity and connection within the community. According to a news release from the Fresno Mission, “This collaborative event represents the ongoing commitment of both the Fresno Mission and Central California Food Bank to provide resources, hope, and support for Fresno’s families.” The event aims not only to feed attendees but also to encourage interaction among individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Families attending the event will also have access to other resources. Over 1,000 turkeys will be distributed, along with holiday bags filled with non-perishable food items to help families complete their holiday meals. Additionally, a resource fair will be available, featuring opportunities to engage with experts in mental health care, education, and addiction recovery.

Matt Dildine, CEO of the Fresno Mission, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “One Table Fresno is more than a meal — it’s a moment where our entire city comes together as one family. When people sit at the table, they feel dignity and belonging. That’s what this is all about.”

For families looking for festive activities, the event will also include a family fun zone with photo opportunities with Santa Claus and other engaging activities. Volunteers are still needed for preparation in the days leading up to the event, although many positions on the day itself have already been filled. Those interested in assisting can sign up through the Fresno Mission’s website.

The One Table Fresno event not only aims to alleviate immediate hunger but also serves as a reminder of the community’s strength and resilience in challenging times. This partnership between the Fresno Mission and Central California Food Bank exemplifies the spirit of giving and cooperation that characterizes the holiday season.