The Yolo Food Bank hosted an afternoon of celebration and gratitude at their annual Appreciation Event on Saturday, March 22.

The “Food Bank Fiesta” brought together more than 300 community members, financial donors, volunteers and food donors all together to honor the unwavering commitment of those whose generosity continues to strengthen and feed vulnerable members of Yolo County.

At a time when only 54% of Americans report feeling a connection to people in their local community, according to the Pew Research Center, this year’s event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of building and nurturing community connections.

Supporters of all backgrounds were united at the Food Bank’s warehouse where they learned about the work being done to address food insecurity through self-guided tours. The event also featured a festive atmosphere with music by Mariachi Los Claveles, delicious street tacos and a silent auction showcasing unique handcrafted garden items.

“This is now the second year we bring all supporters together under one roof, many of which give in multifaceted ways,” said Executive Director Karen Baker. “Our common agenda is so simple — we all want to feed our neighbors.”

The highlight of the day came during the annual Pallet Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations that have gone above and beyond to support the mission of Yolo Food Bank. This year, Yolo Food Bank was proud to honor a diverse group of outstanding partners who have made significant contributions to strengthening food security in the community.

Food Security Ambassador

Yolo County Supervisor Lucas Frerichs: For his leadership and advocacy in securing funding for food security initiatives countywide, including a $20,000 contribution of his Community Benefit Funds to support the Cultivo program in Winters and Davis.

Creative Legacy Grocery Partner

Raley’s Bel Air: For their continued donations via Yolo Food Bank’s grocery recovery efforts, and their enduring and dynamic partnership through Raley’s Food For Families.

Volunteer Groups of the Year

Girl Scout Troop #1290: For their continued dedication to supporting Yolo Food Bank’s Holiday Food Distributions with 30-40 volunteers each year, and for their consistent commitment to giving back.

Drive & Thrive Team: This amazing group of volunteers uses their own vehicles to deliver food to seniors and individuals with disabilities in rural Yolo County, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Collaborative Agricultural Partner

Jim and Deborah Durst of Durst Organic Growers: For their long-standing support and for growing 400 pounds of fresh produce for Yolo Food Bank this past spring, including broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower, through a unique project with Winters High School.

HM.Clause: For their continued generosity, including a major pumpkin donation in 2024 and planting a new special crop to support Yolo Food Bank’s efforts in the coming year.

Rural Community Ambassador

Rachel De La Cruz from the Madison Community Committee: For her tireless work organizing and distributing food to one-third of families in need in the rural town of Madison, CA.

In addition to the Pallet Awards, Yolo Food Bank proudly awarded 20 Lifetime Achievement Volunteer Awards to individuals who have dedicated more than 500 hours of service. With these new honorees, Yolo Food Bank has now recognized 65 volunteers since launching the Lifetime Achievement program in 2023.

“We are deeply grateful to our incredible volunteers, donors, and community partners who help make our mission possible year-round,” said Karen Baker, Executive Director of Yolo Food Bank. “With federal support for vulnerable communities dramatically decreasing, our community’s generosity matters more than ever. We must rally to ensure every Yolo County family has food on the table — no matter what lies ahead.”

To learn more about Yolo Food Bank, visi: https://yolofoodbank.org/.