The Cargill Fresno Protein Processing Plant. Google Street View

Cargill’s Fresno Protein Processing Plant announced Thursday a $100,000 grant to establish program to tackle disparities in health, education and employment in the Latino community.

The donation to the Central Valley Community Foundation will create the Cargill Central Valley Community Investment Project, which seeks a holistic approach to supporting a demographic group that constitutes more than 50% of the region’s population.

“Our grant to the Central Valley Community Foundation is more than a donation – it’s a commitment to the people who make this region so vital,” said Pete Stoddard, North American director of corporate responsibility at Cargill, in a statement. “Our focus is on supporting education, enhancing food security, and providing affordable housing solutions, particularly for the Latino/a community which forms the heart of the valley. We believe that these initiatives will not only address immediate needs but also pave the way for long-term, sustainable growth and prosperity in the Central Valley.”

Specifically, half of the grant will be invested in the Food to Share Food Hub, which will offer thousands of children in poverty not only food recovery and distribution but also education on cooking, budgeting and nutrition.

The food project is expected to create more than 80 jobs and distribute more than half a million pounds of healthy food in its first year and 1.5 million pounds by the third year.

A third of the grant goes to State Center Community College District to provide scholarships for undocumented students, to be augmented by a $20,000 match from the Mexican Consulate enabling the award of 60 $500-scholarships and 20 $1,000-scholarships.

Another 20% goes to the Education and Leadership Foundation for emergency rental assistance in Fresno County. Since its inception in 2021, ELF’s program has helped more than 1,362 families maintain their housing.

Central Valley Community Foundation will administer the funding.

“At the Central Valley Community Foundation, we express our gratitude to Cargill for the investment of $100,000 in community organizations. This support strengthens our region’s ability to tackle social and economic challenges in California’s Central Valley. With over two million residents spanning six counties, we understand the distinct challenges our region faces.  Together, we’re committed to bridging gaps, fostering inclusivity and building a brighter, more equitable future for the Central Valley,” said Ashley Swearengin, president and CEO, Central Valley Community Foundation.