Civic and Community

MEND – Meet Each Need with Dignity’s emergency food pantry, clothing center and client intake program form the core of its operations, providing food and clothing to 30,000 clients each month who have few, if any, other options. MEND’s professional staff is able to maintain a high level of service and meet the growing needs of impoverished families in the San Fernando Valley by utilizing the skills of 2,900 volunteers who fill roles in all facets of the organization. Despite the recent economic downturn, MEND remains committed to growing its programs by approximately 10% each year by continuing to focus on volunteer labor and positive interactions between the volunteers and clients. As a result of its recent capital expansion, which was also supported by the W. M. Keck Foundation, MEND has the necessary space and other resources for growth. This challenge grant will support the core programs and leverage MEND’s large volunteer base, excellent facilities and good name in the community to serve an increasing number of individuals and families in need.