Beyond the Pantry: Partner Referrals and Lasting Support

At Catholic Charities Yolo-Solano (CCYS), the food pantry functions as both an immediate food access point and a gateway to longer-term nutrition assistance. Many clients are referred through trusted community partners, allowing CCYS to reach individuals who may otherwise remain disconnected from benefits.

In this instance, a client was referred to the CCYS food pantry by a partner organization for emergency food support. Initially, the client accessed pantry services exclusively and returned multiple times without engaging in conversations about additional needs. Through consistent, welcoming interactions with pantry staff, trust was gradually established.

During subsequent visits, the client noticed CalFresh Outreach (CFO) materials displayed throughout the pantry. These materials prompted questions about eligibility and available support. With staff guidance and reassurance, the client received assistance completing the CalFresh application and was successfully enrolled. As a result, the client now has consistent access to food outside of pantry visits, reducing reliance on emergency food services.

The client shared that the trusted referral from the partner organization, combined with CCYS’s supportive and nonjudgmental environment, gave them the confidence to seek CalFresh assistance. This outcome highlights the effectiveness of strong community partnerships and intentional outreach strategies. By integrating food pantry services with CalFresh Outreach, CCYS supports both immediate food needs and longer-term food security for individuals and families.