August 8, 2017 – Saturday, August 12th will be the next Food Access Saturday. This new United Way program has been created to help those that are working, but are struggling to get by. Food will be distributed to those that participate in this new program that is geared towards working individuals, who are having a hard time making ends meet. With the cost of housing, daycare and transportation many people have a hard time purchasing the groceries they need. If you are one of these individuals or families, United Way encourages you to come and pick up some food this Saturday, August 12th between 10:00 and 1:00. So far, through the program, many bags of groceries have been distributed to community members who are struggling to get by.
Recently United Way of Nevada County, in partnership with Interfaith Food Ministry (IFM) and the Food Bank of Nevada County, started a 6 month trial of distributing food on the second Saturday of each month to help resolve the glaring gap in providing food to the “working poor.” United Way will be providing a majority of the funding and manpower while IFM will provide the facilities, volunteers and some additional funding. The program, Food Access Saturday: Uniting to Support Working Families is specifically designed for working individuals and families who need supplemental groceries.
Currently in Nevada County, supplemental food is only distributed Monday through Friday during traditional working hours. If struggling families are working during the traditional work week they may not have time to pick up much-needed food. Through data, surveys, and community meetings, the United Way Community Impact Committee has been analyzing this challenge and working with the local community to fill this gap in services.
Any working individuals & families who need food can participate. Current IFM clients, who are working and find it difficult or sometimes impossible to come during the weekly distribution, are also welcome to participate on Saturday. The distribution will take place at 440 Henderson Street, in Grass Valley, from 10am-1pm on the 2nd Saturday of each month (during the 6 month trial). For more information contact United Way at 274-8111 or admin@uwnc.org.