Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Community Seva, a Bay Area nonprofit that provides hot meals and essential services to unhoused and food-insecure residents, launched a new emergency weekend meals program in partnership with Gilroy Union School District that will serve 500 children and their families every Saturday and Sunday in November.
38 years of Indian American stories depend on what you do next. Stand with us today.
The program launched in direct response to the suspension of SNAP/CalFresh benefits, which have left many low-income families across Santa Clara County without the resources needed to provide meals at home. Gilroy Unified School District has reported rising concerns about weekend hunger among students who depend on meals provided during the school week.
Beginning this past weekend, Community Seva and their volunteers will prepare and distribute fresh, nutritious boxed lunches, ensuring children do not face hunger during this period of instability. Meals are made at Community Seva’s centralized commercial kitchen in the City of Santa Clara.
“Our families in South County are hurting,” said Santa Clara County Supervisor Sylvia Arenas, District 1. “Children should never bear the burden of bureaucratic delays or policy breakdowns. I am grateful to Community Seva and all of our partners for stepping up so quickly.”
Dr. Anisha Munshi, Superintendent, Gilroy Unified School District (GUSD), added: “At a time when so many of our families are experiencing the effects of food insecurity, the district is profoundly grateful for the partnership and generosity of Supervisor Arenas’ office and Community Seva. Their commitment to supporting our community ensures that our students and families have access to the essential resources they need. We value their collaboration and the positive impact they make in the lives of those that GUSD serves.”
Program Partnerships
Nathan Ganeshan, Founder & Board President of Community Seva Inc., stated, “When we heard about the sudden disruption of SNAP/CalFresh benefits, we immediately mobilized. When the need arises, Community Seva has always stepped up for our neighbors. This emergency meals program is a true example of who we are and what we stand for, which is ensuring that no child or family in our community goes hungry during difficult times.”
This emergency initiative is being carried out in collaboration with Santa Clara County Supervisor Sylvia Arenas, District 1, Mayor Greg Bozzo, City of Gilroy, Gilroy Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Anisha Munshi, and South County Youth Task Force
Each partner has contributed outreach, coordination, or on-the-ground support to ensure meals reach families most affected.
About Community Seva
Community Seva Inc. is a nonprofit organization that has been dedicated to feeding the hungry and serving the unhoused across Santa Clara County and the greater Bay Area for over a decade. Through programs providing hot meals, emergency food boxes, women’s hygiene kits, and mobile showers, Community Seva has served tens of thousands of individuals since its founding, including over 400,000 meals. The organization is powered by volunteers, community partnerships, and a commitment to dignity and compassion.