Photo by Ben Hensley | The Central California Food Bank is partnering with Kaiser Permanente to assist communities struggling with hunger in Fresno and Madera counties.

published on August 4, 2026 – 4:14 PM
Written by Emi Obrero

Kaiser Permanente is supporting Fresno and Madera organizations working to address food insecurity through food distribution events, nutritious meal deliveries and emergency food assistance.

Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente is a nationwide health care organization that provides its 12.9 million members with access to high-quality, affordable health care services, providers and nonprofit health plans. The organization provides care across nine states and the District of Columbia and supports health care innovation, clinical research, health education and community health programs.

So far this year, Kaiser Permanente has awarded $540,000 in grants to 13 organizations in Fresno and Madera counties, helping vulnerable populations, including older adults, gain greater access to nutritious food, according to a news release.

Research conducted by the California Association of Food Banks in 2025 found:

       * 24% of California adults experienced food insecurity.
       * Among adults living with children, 33% experienced food insecurity.
       * Grocery costs were the leading affordability concern among U.S. adults.

The association estimates that about 16 million Californians — roughly 40% of the state’s population — cannot afford basic necessities because of income shortfalls and may rely on local food banks to help meet those needs.

In response, Kaiser Permanente has awarded approximately $4.3 million to more than 100 organizations addressing food insecurity in the communities it serves. The grants help local food banks provide healthy meals and groceries to vulnerable families and older adults.

The Central California Food Bank received $175,000 to support the distribution of healthy food through Kaiser Permanente’s Neighborhood Market, Mobile Pantry and Groceries2Go programs in Fresno and Madera counties.

“For many years, Kaiser Permanente has been a valued partner in ensuring that our neighbors have access to the food they need to thrive,” said Kym Dildine, co-CEO of the Central California Food Bank. “This will help the Central California Food Bank provide fresh produce and culturally responsive food options to individuals and families experiencing hunger right here in our community.”