Placerville, Calif. Kim McPherson (October 30, 2023) – A partner agency of the Food Bank can be any social service organization that serves as an emergency food pantry, a soup kitchen, a senior program, a children’s program, a maternity home, an emergency resource center, and many others. They all work in tandem to create a service network which provides emergency food assistance to communities throughout El Dorado County. Together, they are called the “Emergency Food Assistance Network”.
The Food Bank of El Dorado County provides weekly food procurement, organization, and distribution assistance to over 30 of its partner agencies. As a team, the Food Bank and the Emergency Food Assistance Network create a safety net against the threat of food insecurity. The Network offers county-wide support for thousands of our neighbors that struggle to make ends meet, every single day.
At the 2023 partner agency meeting, the Tribe’s Fire Chief, John Tayaba, spoke briefly to the Network of charities. He reinforced the critical need for community collaboration, and the importance of helping our local elders that may need a helping hand. He also illustrated how the Network’s dedication and service has gone beyond just feeding people, and that many other opportunities for support have been extended to the community.
The large group enjoyed a meal at Koto Buffet, discussed the specialized service that they each provide, and how they can work together to better serve the neighbors in need within their communities of El Dorado County. Partner agencies were able to communicate directly with each other, enjoy each other’s company, and share best practices. The opportunity to receive recommendations and affirmations from each other was an invaluable experience.
Mike Sproull, the founder and Director of the Food Bank of El Dorado County, said to the Network,
“You all say to us, ‘We couldn’t do it without the Food Bank!’ But truly, the Food Bank could not do it without YOU.”
The partner agencies of the Network are committed to serving as advocates for their neighboring communities throughout El Dorado County, and have taken care of our at-risk families and individuals of all ages for 23 years. The gathering strengthened their solidarity and dedication to their common cause as they move into the future.
