Every Tuesday, in Knights Landing and the town of Yolo, there is a bustling hub of activity as volunteers unload crates of fresh vegetables, fruits, and other wholesome foods from Yolo Food Bank. For many of the people served by Empower Yolo, this weekly event is more than just a food distribution—it’s a symbol of community support.
For more than ten years, Empower Yolo and Yolo Food Bank have worked together to alleviate food insecurity for families in Yolo County. What began as a modest food distribution program serving about 25 families twice a month in Knights Landing and Yolo, has grown to reach approximately 125 families weekly in each location, with additional distributions twice a month in Davis. This increase reflects the deepening need within the community and the ongoing commitment of Empower Yolo and Yolo Food Bank to provide consistent, reliable support to local families.
Reflecting on the partnership’s evolution, Karen Baker, Yolo Food Bank’s Executive Director, said, “Our partnership with Empower Yolo has grown alongside the needs of Yolo County’s families. Together, we are able to reach those who need us most, ensuring that no one has to go without access to nutritious food.”
The weekly distributions offer critical support to families who continue to struggle with rising living costs. Lynnette Irlmeier, Empower Yolo’s Executive Director shared, “The families we see are really struggling, and the food they pick up every week helps stretch their budget. It’s often the difference between feeding their families enough and going without.”
For many, the distributions are a lifeline. Maria, a single mother of three, described how the program has helped her family: “With the cost of everything going up, I sometimes worry about having enough to go around. But every week, knowing I can get fresh produce and pantry staples, it feels like a blessing. My kids know we’re going to have what we need.”
For the volunteers and staff at Empower Yolo, seeing the joy and relief on the faces of those they serve is immensely rewarding. They know that these weekly deliveries are not just about providing food; they are about fostering a sense of belonging and support. The fresh vegetables and other foods symbolize the community’s commitment to each other’s well-being.
“Even though the pandemic is behind us, the numbers continue to grow,” says Irlmeier. “The rising cost of food, housing, and basic necessities means more families are seeking help now more than ever. Our weekly distributions are essential for families trying to make ends meet in these challenging times,” adds Irlmeier.
John, retired and living on a fixed income, also finds solace in the weekly food distribution. The fresh vegetables he receives have become a vital part of his diet, helping him manage his health conditions. John appreciates the variety and quality of the food. The weekly distributions are not just about sustenance; they are about maintaining his dignity and independence.
This long-standing partnership between Empower Yolo and Yolo Food Bank demonstrates the power of community collaboration, continuing to bring hope and stability to Yolo County families in need. Through their combined efforts, the organizations are helping to build a more resilient, nourished community, week after week, and year after year.
If you or a community member are experiencing food insecurity please come to one of Empower Yolo’s food distribution sites: Davis Resource Center – 441 D Street, Davis; (530) 757-1261; 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 9 a.m. Knights Landing Resource Center – 9586 Mill Street, Knights Landing; (530) 661-5519; every Tuesday at 9 a.m. Town of Yolo – 37817 Sacramento Street, Yolo; (530) 668-0690; every Thursday at 8 a.m. All sites provide food while supplies last.
Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week: Empower Yolo will observe Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week November 17-23 to raise awareness for the problems of hunger and homelessness. For more information about our awareness week and how you can help support those experiencing food and housing insecurity visit empoweryolo.org.
Thanksgiving: If you would like to support the families at the safe house for Thanksgiving please donate grocery gift cards to help with Thanksgiving meals at the shelter. Donations can be brought to the Davis or Woodland offices during office hours.
Thank you for supporting Empower Yolo and the Yolo Food Bank. Together, we are feeding, uplifting, and strengthening our community. Your support makes a meaningful difference, helping us ensure that everyone has access to healthy, nourishing food.