Imperial Valley Food Bank Named Nonprofit of Year

Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez Names Imperial Valley Food Bank as Assembly District 36 Nonprofit of the Year

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez, R-Indio, on Tuesday named the Imperial Valley Food Bank as the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year for California’s 36th Assembly District, recognizing its outstanding contributions to alleviating hunger and supporting individuals throughout Imperial County:

“The Imperial Valley Food Bank plays a vital role in our community by ensuring that residents have access to nutritious food, especially during challenging times,” said Assemblyman Gonzalez. “I am thankful to Sara Griffen and the entire team at (the) Food Bank for their unwavering commitment to service and community well-being, which exemplifies the spirit of nonprofit excellence. The Food Bank continues to expand its reach and services, including mobile pantries and senior nutrition programs, to address the evolving needs of our community.”

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition,” Sara Griffen, Executive Director of the Imperial Valley Food Bank, said in a statement. “This award reflects the dedication and hard work of our team, volunteers, and community partners who strive every day to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors.”

California Nonprofits of the Year will be formally recognized in Sacramento at the State Capitol on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

The Imperial Valley Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger and improving nutrition in Imperial County. Through its direct service programs, mobile pantries, and partnerships with more than 50 local agencies, the Food Bank provides millions of pounds of food each year to individuals and families in need.

Gonzalez represents Imperial County and portions of Riverside and San Bernardino County in the California Legislature. District 36 includes Anza, Blythe, Brawley, Calexico, Coachella, El Centro, Hemet, Holtville, Imperial, Indio, Mecca, Salton City, Thermal, Westmorland, Winchester, and Winterhaven.

Editor’s note: Photo used with permission of Imperial Valley Food Bank