Nourish: Resource Center

WHAT OUR COMMUNITY TOLD US

In CRRC’s 2026 Food Pantry survey, 83% of respondents reported choosing between groceries and another critical expense at least monthly. In the broader Community Needs survey, 78% said not knowing where to go prevents people from accessing services, while 66% identified transportation and 53% identified cost as barriers.

“They give you back a degree of dignity, letting us pick the food we need and not being made to feel like we are lesser for having needs.”

WHAT WE KNOW

From January through July 2026, CRRC distributed food valued at $1,090,633. An average of 1,417 people access the Food Pantry each month, including 355 children and approximately 375 older adults. CRRC is also welcoming an average of 55 new households—about 119 people—every month.

Some households need ongoing food support. Others come during a job loss, medical crisis, unexpected expense, or temporary disruption and step away when circumstances improve. The pantry is here so food can be the bridge that protects rent, medication, transportation, and household stability.

FOOD PANTRY: $25,000

Nourish will sustain CRRC’s client-choice pantry, where residents select food for their own household. The model reduces waste, respects preferences and dietary needs, and protects dignity by allowing people to shop rather than receive a one-size-fits-all box.

STEP FORWARD: $25,000

Information alone does not resolve a crisis. Step Forward provides trusted, customized, and ongoing support for 8–12 participants who are ready to address the interconnected barriers affecting their stability. Participants work with CRRC on individualized goals involving resource navigation, education, employment, financial habits, housing, health access, and other life barriers.

A referral is only the beginning. CRRC follows progress toward whether a connection was attempted, a service was reached, and the participant moved closer to their own goals. Former participant Erik recently completed a professional certification and is pursuing a career in real estate—an example of what can happen when someone has both opportunity and sustained support.