The Big Fresno Fair and Fresno State are partnering for a special “Fill the Need” admission day on Thursday, Oct. 9. On this day only, admission will be $6 per person, with $3 from each ticket benefiting the Amendola Family Student Cupboard — a program that supports Fresno State students facing food insecurity. Proceeds will help offset rising food costs through the program’s buying network, with every $1 raised providing about four meals for students.
The Student Cupboard is part of the Fresno State Food Security Project that provides free food, hygiene products and other resources to current students.
“While the Student Cupboard has seen an increase in community support since its inception, the need for fresh, healthy food remains constant,” said Phong Yang, interim vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at Fresno State. “Ongoing inflation and rising food costs continue to stretch our resources — this partnership helps us do more for our students.”
The Amendola Family Student Cupboard has served over 30,000 individual students and their families since opening in 2014, with nearly 502,000 total visits. On average, the Student Cupboard serves 41,830 student visits each month. It provides access to both perishable and non-perishable groceries, including fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, bread, juice and frozen meals.
“The Student Cupboard helped me make the most of my potential. Without having to worry where my next meal would come from, I’ve been able to devote myself to my education and building a secure and meaningful future,” said Logan Mouawangee, a Fresno State student who has also worked at the Student Cupboard for the past two years.
“I’ve seen how much collaboration goes into making the cupboard thrive with campus partners and with community organizations across Fresno. The Student Cupboard has been an essential part of my journey through higher education, and I know it has transformed the lives of many other students at Fresno State.”
The Food Security Project also connects students to resources such as CalFresh, with over 6,100 applications assisted since 2018. Students additionally benefit from workshops provided on topics like healthy eating on a budget, cooking demos and free consultations with a registered dietitian.
“The Fill the Need partnership builds upon the successful food drive campaign held at Fresno State in partnership with The Big Fresno Fair for a five-year run,” said Christina Estrada, CEO of The Big Fresno Fair. “After pausing due to the pandemic, we’re excited to revive this giving program for students, while also making the Fair more accessible with discounted entry.”
Event details
Date: Thursday, Oct. 9
Fair hours: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Tickets: FresnoFair.com/Tickets or in person at the Fairgrounds Box Office (open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.).
- “Fill the Need” admission tickets are valid only for use on Oct. 9.
- All online fees have been waived.
- Bulk ticket packages are available by calling (559) 650-3229
