The Big Fresno Fair and Amendola Family Student Cupboard will host Fill the Need Day on Oct. 9 to address student food insecurity. The event aims to provide meals and resources to students struggling with access to food.
On this day, admission to the fair will be $6. From each ticket sold, $3 will go directly to the Amendola Family Student Cupboard, a Fresno State program that provides free food and hygiene items to students facing food insecurity.
“All students are welcome,” said Michael Ballin, food security project coordinator for the Student Cupboard. “It’s kind of sharing that bulldog pride and what we have to offer at Fresno State.”
With just over 25,000 students currently enrolled at Fresno State, programs like the Student Cupboard remain crucial to campus life.
According to the university, just $1 can provide about four meals for students in need.
The Student Cupboard is part of Fresno State’s Food Security Project, and since opening in 2014, it has helped nearly 30,000 students. Since its inception, it has served over 500,000 students.
“We do get emails. … that confirm that students are appreciative of the service and that it does help them and their families while they’re coming here to school through their educational journey,” Ballin said.
According to Ballin, the Student Cupboard is growing and is planning on expanding to things like free vending machines.
The program provides fresh produce, non-perishable items, hygiene supplies and other essential products to students in need.
Fresno State officials say the cupboard is a critical resource for students who face challenges balancing school, work and daily living expenses.
The partnership with the Big Fresno Fair is part of a broader effort to raise awareness and support for food security on campus.
Beyond providing meals, the Student Cupboard also offers hygiene items to ensure students can maintain health and wellness while attending school. These efforts aim to reduce barriers that might prevent students from completing their education or participating fully in campus life.
“It’s a service that’s growing… and we’ve seen our numbers rise through the last couple years that I’ve been here,” Ballin said.
Community members are encouraged to attend the fair on Oct. 9, not just for the discounted admission, but to support the initiative.
The Student Cupboard will be at the fair from 10 a.m. until about 10 p.m. with games and activities. Ballin said that Victor E. Bulldog and the cheer team will be there.
Tickets are available online and in person at the fair’s box office. The discounted tickets are valid only on Oct. 9 and cannot be combined with any other promotion or offer.
