I recently visited Folsom Lake College to witness one of our Pantry Outreach Program (POP) partners in action. This program allows us to partner with local organizations and expand accessibility to nutritious food while supporting vulnerable neighbors through services like education, counseling, and employment resources. While I knew the statistics and was familiar with the logistics, being on campus and watching the food distribution unfold in front of me brought the relational aspect of our mission, front and center.
I watched as Byron Butler, from our operations team, along with some student volunteers unload food from our boxed truck. Boxes of food and other pantry staples moved quickly from truck to carts, then into the Welcome Center. Right inside the doors, tables were set up and a line had already begun to form—quiet at first, but full of anticipation.
As the food was carefully arranged, I met David Martinez, the Falcon Cares Basic Needs Specialist at Folsom Lake College, who oversees this vital service. He shared how deeply grateful he is for the partnership and support that Twin Lakes Food Bank provides. David recalls that when the pantry first started, students didn’t come as many were embarrassed to be seen by their peers.
However, through consistency and a welcoming spirit from volunteers and staff, the culture began to shift and the stigma softened. What was once something to hide became something students and families not only needed, but looked forward to. A student recently shared with David, “I love this program! It always makes me happy seeing it even if I don’t grab anything for myself. I really appreciate everyone coming together every week to help us all.”
I watched students waiting in line, connecting with one another through conversation and laughter, as friendly volunteers greeted each person with warmth and dignity. I was able to quietly celebrate the beauty of what happens when acts of kindness and community collide.
