Turning the Hearts Center receives $25,000 to expand operations of Hearts for the Hungry Food Distribution Center
Turning the Hearts Center received a $25,000 contribution from the Walmart Foundation’s California State Giving Council on November 15 to assist with expanding the capacity and operations of the Hearts for the Hungry Food Distribution Center, which provides a unique self-choice food bank program in San Diego’s South Bay.
“We are so appreciative of Walmart and this generous donation, which will allow us to serve more local families in need,” said Marc Lovato, Executive Director of Turning the Hearts Center. “We strive to help families meet the most essential of needs – having enough food to eat – while promoting self-respect and dignity. Walmart’s partnership furthers this mission and helps better the lives of those in our community.”
Turning the Hearts Center launched Hearts for the Hungry Food Distribution Center in 2012. The Distribution Center operates twice a month and is setup like a typical grocery store. Allowing clients to choose their own foods, the format helps to promote family dignity and remove the stigma from food distribution. With the funds provided by the Walmart Foundation, the Center plans to double operations, opening once every week.
“We are proud to support the work of Turning the Hearts Center as it provides critical services to San Diegans in such a benevolent way,” said Craig Abbott, San Diego County Walmart Market Manager. “Walmart strongly believes in giving back locally, and we look forward to watching this great organization continue to positively impact lives.”
Philip Serghini presented the grant on behalf of the Walmart Foundation and spoke about the company’s commitment to ending hunger in America.
The contribution to Turning the Hearts Center was made possible through the Walmart Foundation’s California State Giving Program. The program granted more than $250,000 to nonprofits in San Diego County in 2014. The Walmart Foundation State Giving Program strives to award grants that have a long-lasting, positive impact on communities across the U.S.
To be considered for support, perspective grantee organizations must submit applications through the Walmart Foundation State Giving Program’s online grant application. Applicants must have a current 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in order to meet the program’s minimum eligibility criteria. Additional information about the program’s funding guidelines and application process are available online at www.walmartfoundation.org/state giving.
About Turning the Hearts Center
Turning the Hearts Center, founded in 2001, grew out of a growing community demand to foster programs that empower youth leadership development and strengthen families. The Center seeks to develop future leaders, strong families and rebuild communities by offering a number of youth and adult empowerment programs, including work, health and shelter programs.