The Amendola Family Student Cupboard opened more than a decade ago as part of the Fresno State Food Security Project that provides free food, hygiene products and other resources to students.
Since opening, the Amendola Family Student Cupboard has served over 32,000 individual students and their families with 539,794 total visits. On average, it serves 40,000 student visits each month, providing access to both perishable and non-perishable groceries, including fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, bread, juice and frozen meals.
Thanks to the generosity of community members, businesses and organizations throughout the years, including a $1.5 million endowment established by Lou and Jane Amendola in 2021, the Amendola Family Student Cupboard continues to serve Fresno State students.
So far this academic year, community partners have raised more than $85,000 for the Amendola Family Student Cupboard through gifts, in-kind donations and a food drive.
“We are really grateful and thankful for the sustained support and meaningful gifts from a community that believes in our mission,” said Michael Ballin, coordinator of the Amendola Family Student Cupboard at Fresno State. “This will allow us to continue serving students through our programs and services, but also to expand food accessibility across campus — reaching more students and increasing the hours that food will be available to students.”
Here’s a look at the fall 2025 gifts:
- $55,025 from the “Fill the Need” campaign, The Big Fresno Fair.
- $10,000 from the Baps Charities.
- $10,000 from Nutrien Ag Solutions to support students during the pause in SNAP benefits.
- $5,000 in-kind gift from OK Produce to support students during the pause in SNAP benefits.
- $5,000 anonymous gift.
All enrolled Fresno State students are eligible to use the Amendola Family Student Cupboard, and may visit once a day, Monday through Friday. It is open year-round, only closing during certain holidays.
