The program is being hosted by the office of Assemblymember Juan Arambula (I-Fresno). He will first hold a meeting in San Joaquin at the San Joaquin Community Center from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Feb. 4 before heading to the Mendota City Hall for a session scheduled from 2 to 4 p.m.

Another meeting will be held in downtown Fresno on Friday, Feb. 5 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Assembly Room on the street floor of the Hugh Burns State Building. 

Entrepreneurs and business owners helping to ensure access to local, healthy and organic food in low-income communities and neighborhoods are invited from the following sectors:

• Soil replenishment

• Composting

• Organic fertilizer

• Small agricultural farmer

• Urban farmer

• Canning

• Independent trucker

• Grocery store

• Lunch wagons

• Food preparation

• Restaurant

• Caterer

According to the Feed The Hunger Foundation, which is offering the micro-loan program, loan sizes range from $5,000 to $20,000 with terms up to 60 months. Installment and balloon-type loans are available. Fixed annual interest rates range from 8 to 15%.

Feed The Hunger Foundation is also offering a microcredit program in Hawaii. It is seeking to raise a total of $5 million in debt through 2012, according to its Web site. The loans are made through various financial institutions.

Attendees are asked to RSVP as soon as possible to Beth Rosales at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call (510) 846-2775 or Debbie Tom at (559) 445-5532. Translation services are available if needed by RSVP.