MENIFEE, CA–The City of Menifee’s Community Services Department is continuously committed to helping our community, and has been monitoring the development of COVID-19 and taking proactive steps to protect Menifee’s most vulnerable and food insecure seniors.

As additional safety restrictions related to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) limited visits to the Senior Center to “grab and go lunches” only, a key partnership with OC Food Bank broadened the distribution of essential nutrition. Together, OC Food Bank and the City fed over 480 seniors with food boxes containing healthy and nutritious foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables.

“The Community Services Department is committed to assisting seniors that are most vulnerable and in dire need of food assistance especially during this challenging time,” stated Community Services Director Jonathan Nicks. Orange County Food Bank (OCFB) is part of a larger private non-profit community service organization – the Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAPOC), which distributes nearly 25 million pounds of food each year through 400 partner organizations to feed 1,400 people directly each day in Orange, Los Angeles, and Riverside Counties.

The demand for services and for food has increased, in part because vulnerable people are remaining inside during the calls for deep social distancing by both Governor Newsom, and Riverside County Public Health Official Dr. Kaiser. “The City is grateful for our many volunteers (while practicing social distancing), and partners, because the amount we are able to serve with their assistance is so much greater and impactful. If you are a food insecure senior, please reach out to the senior center in Menifee, and connect with us,” said Mayor Bill Zimmerman.

For more information on Menifee’s Senior Services Food Program, please call (951) 672-9673  or visit www.cityofmenifee.us/communityservices and for COVID-19 information, please visit www.cityofmenifee.us/coronavirus.