Ecumenical Hunger Program

Bookcase, night stands, and coffee table completed the assemble of love seat, long couch, coffee table and rocking chair all from Ecumenical Hungry Program 2411 Pulgas Ave
East Palo Alto, Ca 94303
+16503237781 .. Thank u staff. u are efficient and friendly. and Thank u to those who donate . Couldn't add photo to this review ������

I have volunteered with and donated to EHP for years. EHP is the most affirming, values-driven organization I have had the pleasure of engaging with. They are the community they support—a truly impactful grassroots organization.

When I first came to EHP, I was a donor but after a few months I became an employee. I am so proud of the many services that EHP provides to everyone that comes to our facility. It could be food or clothing and even other needs that we might not provide but we can help the clients by searching for the right organization that can help them with the need they are looking for. As a bilingual professional, I am proud to help many people from many backgrounds and needs because we can be the hope they need during their challenging times. I had the chance to see many clients start from nothing, becoming very successful with a job and a brighter future for themselves and their families too.

"It is more blessed to give than to receive." That is what comes to mind when I think of this organization. The consistency of care, thoughtfulness and generosity that is poured out from each member of the organization is unmatched. Being able to work at an organization that supports its community and those that surpass is a blessing. The volume of support received from donors, volunteers, board members and staff are a true testament to the mission. EHP providing food, clothing, furniture and more is an understatement. They provide shoulders to cry on, safe spaces, a sense of community and partnerships. I am more than fortunate to work and be involved with an organization that continues to grow, help and find ways to be a safety net for those in need. Thank you, EHP, for all that you do and will continue to do. You are a beacon of hope and a pillar in this community.

I very happy that this nonprofit Agency
Exist and helps people in need. They have helped me in so many ways one me mentally and emotionally with the loving care that I got from Lisa they help me my pay for my school and I'm very grateful for them.

There’s no nonprofit organization like EHP in the Bay Area. They help with food, clothing, furniture, household items and many more. And the help goes beyond the community of East Palo Alto. EHP serves families from San Mateo , Alameda , Santa Clara and San Joaquin counties also. EHP is the best nonprofit organization.

Wow! Drove into the parking lot this afternoon and the lines for food pickup were as long as Covid days. Clearly it has become permanently more difficult for families to sustain themselves in this area when they have to choose between paying their escalating rents, keeping their vehicles on the road so they can get to work or feeding themselves healthy, nutritious food. EHP is helping them address all of these problems and more. A true safety net for the residents of the greater East Palo Alto area.

Having been involved with the Ecumenical Hunger Program, (EHP) for almost 25 years, I have witnesses, the help the program has given hundreds of individuals and families in need. EHP has sustained many people/families with donations from the community of food, furniture, clothing and other inkind goods, donations for almost 75 years. At times funds are used to cover necessities of utilities and such, to help a person or family in their most difficult time. EHP has been the largest receiver of food from 2nd Harvest food bank in San Mateo County. It is a 100% donor based nonprofit.
It has been my privilege to be associated with EHP for so many years.

EHP is a wonderful, caring organization based in East Palo Alto. I have volunteered for many years here, and more recently joined the board. The organization helps those who need the support in the surrounding communities with emergency food assistance, support, home essentials including furniture and clothing, a Children's Resource Center, as well as provides misc other programs such as holiday sharing and an organic garden program. Highly recommend this non-profit.

EHP has been serving the community for decades. Meeting the food needs of new residents and the elderly, the most vulnerable populations in Silicon Valley.

I have been involved with Ecumenical Hunger Program (EHP) for over 30 years and it is a wonderful organization. I have been involved as both a volunteer and Board member. EHP provides wonderful support to the community in a caring and loving environment. EHP provides support to families in many ways, including, food, clothing, furniture, household supplies and counseling. My two boys learned value lessons volunteering at EHP.

My first experience with EHP was a donor. Then, I started volunteering. It exceeded my expectations because I was able to see how organize and clean, they maintain the facility and the food that is given out to everyone. I am proud to be volunteering here in an amazing organization that cares for our community every day. Besides giving free food, they provide other resources like clothing, bedding, furniture and appliances. It is a complete nonprofit organization that is there for the community. They even referred families to other resources within the community if they can't provide it. Thank you for making a difference to all.

If you are ever in need of food, clothes, furnishings, or help in finding a place to live or other social services, EHP is a great resource. Everything is offered free of charge and always with a friendly smile. EHP has many programs that promote sustainability for families who are struggling paycheck to paycheck in our community. These programs vary from emergency food boxes to on-campus pet vaccination clinics. EHP also collaborates with agencies such as Cake4Kids that provide children with delicious, one-of-a-kind birthday cakes made to order or foundations that provides rental and housing support. With the holidays coming up, you can bet EHP will be planning special treats and surprises for all their clients. This is a great place to volunteer, where everyone - staff, management, volunteers and clients - are kind, courteous and downright friendly.

My name is Savion and I have known about the E.H.P since I was very young. I used to come here all the time and the E.H.P really helped my family out in times of need. I became a volunteer to help out others in need and to help out my community. The E.H.P is like a home to me, and I will always be there to help out the E.H.P. I believe that if the E.H.P expanded it would really decrease world hunger and poverty. I will always donate and support the E.H.P since it has supported me. If there were no E.H.P in my community a lot of people would have a harder time trying to survive. I encourage youth and those who are willing to participate to volunteer at the E.H.P. There is no other program that I know that is completely free and is for the people and by the people. Join us

-Savion
The Volunteer

I live close to the organization and have witnessed the ample help and support that that EHPcares offers to the community here, first-hand. The people who work here are extremely friendly, welcoming and always open to collaborating on tasks. It's been a great pleasure to offer support and help to the community through EHP.

what I like about EHP is how nice and caring the staff are how understanding they are. if you need someone to talk and express your feeling to the are very supportive and the reason why I wanted to volunteer here is because I know what it feels to not have anything and have to ask for help and working here make me feel good because I know that I'm doing something good for my community and it makes me happy that why I would continue volunteering here because of the loving staff and what they do for the community .

Super friendly people to help you with all your needs! They will greet you with a smile and make you feel comfortable. If they don’t have something you need they will help you find where you can get it or call you as soon as they have it.

I usually come on Thursday evenings after work for food, I love that the staff is always welcoming and willing to help me when I need to load my car with furniture.

I have been a client of Ecumenical Hunger Program
off and on for years. They have helped my family and I
with basic needs (food, clothing and housing) But what has been most helpful is
the emotional support, guidance, and always having a listening ear. Always willing
to lend a helping hand. Never making me feel ashamed because I may have needed
their services more than once. Just knowing there is an organization with people who
really care makes the ups of life brighter and the downs a little easier.

Thank You
Gertrude C.

My low income family of 5, have received a significant amount of help from EHP in so many ways! For the past 6 years, EHP has been a pillar of support to my family from filling the void of food in our house, supplying us with furniture and household items that we were unable to afford on our own, and gifting our beautiful 3 boys with diapers , clothes, and toys. This have been an incredible blessing to our family throughout the years and we could not have made it without EHP's consistent help. Living in the Bay Area, with 3 kids is incredibly expensive and close to impossible to live appropriately due to the cost of living. We can't put into words how grateful we are of EHP's assistance!!!

Ecumenical Hunger Program makes an important and profound impact on families and individuals that need food and support. They also are compassionate in providing these crucial services

I have known EHP for over 30 years, and seen first hand, as a volunteer, their incredible service to the surrounding communities in so many areas critical to healthy living and positive attitudes. Their extended outreach during the challenging Covid-19 years has been powerful and empowering. The role EHP plays in building up and supporting people's lives cannot be overstated.

EHP is one of the only Silicon Valley organizations that facilitates neighbors helping one another when one finds themselves in financial distress (especially as the wealth gap grows), by providing food, clothing, furniture, and helping others meet each needs. What makes it truly special is the interactions that EHP allows people to have with one another. Whether it was as a volunteer who was helping a neighbor and parent with holiday gifts, or another who was volunteering in the food closet each week as a neighbor gets back up on their feet - these interactions are rare but for EHP.

EHP does a great job serving local needs. We support them both directly financially, and via our church has long supported their food, back to school and Christmas programs. Their staff is welcoming, helpful and on top of things. They seem to know their clientele intimately, despite the covid/economy-related surge in demand. Silicon Valley has a huge wealth/income disparity and EHP is critical to supporting our working poor. I wish it weren't needed.

For a year during the COVID pandemic our church organized food drives, including growing and harvesting fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs. We donated the proceeds weekly to EHP. EHP staff were competent and friendly and the distribution very well organized, despite the huge increase in volume of patrons served. I highly recommend EHP

EHP is an amazing organization that provides much needed programs and resources to the community.

EHP is an amazing organization, providing food and other material resources to low-income individuals and families for over 44 years. During the pandemic, they remained open every week to distribute groceries to people in need. The staff responded to the many cries for help, whether it was to deliver food to a family whose members all had Covid or to find a washing machine for a senior paraplegic client. This year, EHP participated in and even held Covid-19 vaccination clinics on their campus. When there is a need, EHP works hard to find an answer.

EHP provides extraordinary and compassionate support for those in need. EHP is highly regarded in the San Francisco Bay Area for their work with families and individuals. Their support in providing food, furniture, clothing and referral assistance provides comprehensive services to those in dire need. I have been privileged to support this terrific and important organization for over 30 years.

I've been volunteering (and previously on the board) for EHP for the past 5+ years. Can't say enough wonderful things about all it does for the community of East Palo Alto, in additional to serving all of San Mateo county.

EHP provides a much needed service to the community.

After 18 months of living on the streets. From benches, cardboard, bushes, a vehicle, and a shelter. I was blessed with finding housing! My true savior was EHP. They provided me with food, necessities, furniture, and instilled in me a hope for the future. Their employees àre all dedicated and hardworking. I know many of them by name and their are too many to name like Z, Irene, Zulma, Mediva, Jimmy, James, Gilberto, and all the other fantastic people who ALWAYS greet you with a smile. I love each of you! Robert Rodriguez

I have donated to and volunteered for EHP for years and am continually impressed by the services the organization provides. Most of clients are low-income working families who simply cannot get by on their salaries. EHP provides food, household goods and clothing in a supportive and kind atmosphere.

During the winter holidays, parents are able to find gifts for their children; on Thanksgiving, groceries are provided. Even on Halloween, local shops and individuals contribute fabulous costumes so that kids can celebrate. Parents-to-be can find layette sets with gently used baby clothes, blankets and other newborn needs. Seniors can find canes, walkers, incontinence supplies. Bedding, kitchen items, furniture - all are available for clients in need.

The staff at EHP care deeply about their work and the end results reflect this. I encourage everyone to become familiar with this local treasure and support it.

EHP is more than a cordial community offering resources and programs, they are family! With lines down the street for food, due to Covid, they are always attentive, and never turn anybody away. Food pantry’s filled with basic necessities, even allergy friendly snacks, to school supplies, and gifts for the holidays. It’s no wonder EHP has such a strong force behind it!

I am so glad to continue working at this great organization, providing much needed services to those in need by providing food, clothing, furniture and other essentials. It's an amazing program.

ECUMENICAL HUNGER PROGRAM is an amazing place to work. I have learned so much and met so many amazing people. I am thankful to be a part of the EHP team. EHP truly cares about our neighbors in need / the community we serve.

I got to know EHP since the beginning of the pandemic. Lesia, Nevada, and the rest of the team are truly amazing and they have been helping the families in East Palo Alto since 1970. They go above and beyond, not just to give families food and necessities, but also ask what else they need, they know many of the families personally.

Their contribution to the community is extremely important during the pandemic, as many families have members who have been displaced or out of jobs. Keep up the great work, EHP!

As a volunteer at EHP, I see first-hand how essential this organization is to our community. Whether providing, food, clothing, household items, school supplies or other resources, EHP gives people the kind of support that changes lives. The staff is wonderful: compassionate, hardworking, and focused on serving the community thoughtfully and respectfully. Really an amazing organization!

During hard times I come to EHP for help and they are always giving. I also enjoy the variety of supplies they have.

EHP(Ecumenical Hunger Program) is an independent, community based non-profit that serves anyone who needs food, clothing or furniture. They have manged to stay open and serving people food during this Covid 19 pandemic. EHP staff are dedicated to the mission of EHP, serving those in need with dignity and compassion. Anyone who needs help will find it at EHP, whether it be an immediate need like food or referrals for help with housing or other needs.

EHP has been helpful in many aspects of my life. EHP has helped me with food, reaching out to other resources, and giving support. EHP is changing and helping lives daily.

"I come into a world of iron, to make it A world of Gold".
Dale Wasserman from Don Quixote Man of La Mancha

Let's start with staff… Hearts of Gold working overtime.
I have never seen anyone work so hard in my life!!!
The Ecumenical Hunger Program hums with the driven, dedicated, devoted staff and army of compassionate mindful volunteers doing what seems like the impossible dream.
They bring Hearts and minds, unique & beautiful souls together working for the greater good.
In this climate of division, apathy and willful ignorance...
EHP is A conduit of Grace, by treating the individual with true respect, warmth and generosity. They walk their talk and they continually solidly “Represent".
They are not perfect people, you can often see the tiredness and stress
but they are perfect for the community of humanity and to the overwhelming task that they have taken on, to bring relief, assistance and comfort into a realm that is overflowing with pain and despair.
There are no words to describe the gratitude I feel knowing that they are here fighting the good fight.
With sincerest wonder and gratitude,
May we all Walk in Balance and in Beauty.
All my Relations
Raven Littlewing

As a former client I know first hand the help EHP has provided my family and I when I was most at need. Now as an employee it feels great to honestly offer and speak high volumes of the services we provide to families. Aside food assistance and basic daily living items such as toiletries we provide connections to other agencies that assist in funding for housing, social services, and legal aid. The holidays are the best time of the year as we help with Halloween costumes for the children, Thanksgiving distributions so our families have a home cooked meal, and our Christmas wish list where we assure each child receives a gift they'd treasure for a lifetime. EHP has done more than offer materialistic things, but has provided a feeling of security when others feel there's nowhere to turn to. EHP is home..

I've been involved with EHP for 20 years, as a volunteer in many parts of the organization and as a former board member. EHP has continued year after year, for over 40 years, to provide critically important support to individuals and families experiencing economic hardship in Silicon Valley. It's no surprise to anyone who knows this area that even extended families, living in one apartment, with two or more adults earning at or near the minimum wage cannot make ends meet. EHP's vital role is to provide a safety net -- food, clothing, household goods, furniture, children's programs, and referral services -- that keeps people from despair and homelessness. With a dedicated staff and hundreds of volunteers, everyone receives the support they need, and more importantly, their spirits are lifted because they are treated with respect, dignity, and always a warm smile.

I have been a supporter of the ecumenical hunger program for over 20 years. Doing that time I've seen them help people change their lives. EHP is a fantastic resource for people in need. They are an important part of our community and worthy of our support.

I've been involved with the Ecumenical Hunger Program, (EHP) since 2001. Over the years, I've heard stories from clients telling me how the programs and food boxes gave them the edge to sustain between paychecks. There is encouragement to keep their children in school. One person was a child when his family became involve with EHP. Today with his own family now, he told me, it was because of EHP my family made it. All my sibling
have graduated from college. Because of EHP's help, we all have succeeded.

EHP's campus is a place to come, to sign up for food boxes, the clothes closet, or household items. While on campus, you may see clients doing anything from picking up food boxes to sitting at the picnic tables while watching their children run on the grass. It's a very warm enviroment to refresh yourself.

A good portion of the work at EHP is done by volunteers. Volunteers are individual, families, groups from schools, scouting troops. Many volunteers are ex-clients wanting to help others as they were helped.

85% of the donations go to program. EHP is a donor driven organization. They do not apply for any government grants. All the clothes and household items are donated to EHP

It is hard to express the extent EHP has touched & helped so many lives in the last 45 years. It is a remarkable nonprofit.

I've been involved with EHP (Ecumenical Hunger Program) for 15 years, as a donor, volunteer, and past board member. Whether it's handing out food, or helping people to select clothing for themselves or their children, or picking up much-needed furniture ... EHP staff and volunteers are always there to help, with a broad smile on their faces. Children whose families were given a lifeline by EHP many years ago come back to help others, sometimes two and three generations staying connected. EHP is a caring, critical source of support for people who are stretched to the breaking point by the punishing financial reality of Silicon Valley. It has been a privilege to play a small part in bettering the lives of thousands of adults and children in our community.

I first experienced the work that EHP does in the community by connecting with them through my church almost 30 years ago. When I came on site as a volunteer, I was impressed by the way EHP connected to the local community and really listened to the needs of the population they were serving. Although food insecurity is the number 1 issue that their services address, the case managers, staff, and volunteers work tirelessly to provide much more to the folks in the community through other services, coordination, and loving kindness. This is a great organization that continues to impress me with the way they have grown and continued to serve East Palo Alto and the surrounding cities. They deserve support and contributions from the community as they continue to work to support their neighbors in times of great need.

Ecumenical Hunger Program is an amazing organization. I have seen first hand the care and compassion the staff gives to those in need, always giving service with a smile. I have worked at the program on a temporary basis and volunteered - I was blessed to be a part of something so special - Thank you to EHP!

The face of poverty is changing and especially more so in our community. With the soaring cost of housing in the Bay Area, many working families and individuals, including teachers, caregivers, and service workers, make too much to qualify for government aid or subsidized housing and yet cannot afford to pay their basic living expenses without falling into debt or forgoing other needs such as medical or dental care. EHP helps to fill this gap by providing essentials such as fresh, nutritious food, clothing, shoes, household goods and furniture. EHP offers moral support, advocacy, and many children services that help their clients remain hopeful and resilient as they try to build a more secure future. What really makes EHP stand out is the respect and caring the staff shows to each and every person who comes seeking aid. They are non-judgmental and really care about what happens to their clients. As one person who used their services put it, "EHP is the only place that wouldn't let me fall through the cracks. They were there to pick me up when other agencies failed me."

EHP delivers services with a smile and compassion. My experience volunteering at EHP has been eye-opening to the needs in our community. Thankfully EHP is there to help fill the needs of our neighbors.

My family and I have been supporters of Ecumenical Hunger Program for over 25 years. EHP is an incredible organization on so many levels. First the level of compassion that they exhibit with each and every person they serve is remarkable. The variety of ways they support people and families in need is wonderful - food, clothing, furnishings. The incredibly supportive programs that work with families in need. Finally a staff that truly cares and works incredibly hard. I have worked with various non-profits all my life and EHP is truly an outstanding and effective organization making a positive difference in the lives of so many disadvantaged people.

Ecumenical Hunger Program is a phenomenal organization. I've had the opportunity to speak with individuals who shared they are tremendously bless by the goods and services they receive from EHP. In addition to food boxes, the organization also provides furnisher, bedding, household essentials, and clothing for various occasions. EHP also host a monthly legal clinic. During the summer months free hot meals are available to the public Monday-Friday, and during the Fall season, twice a month. There are monthly and seasonal fun activities for children, along with other services at various times throughout the year.

EHP hard working staff and volunteers are committed to treating those we serve with compassion, respect and dignity. Situated in the heart of a community that have seen a rise in homelessness, struggling families, and individuals, EHP stands as a beacon of hope to East Palo Alto, and the surrounding communities.

Each day throughout all of the news media or even walking or driving down our local streets, we are reminded of how difficult the lack of affordable housing and the ever-increasing prices for everything has made it for families in need that are struggling to manage just the most basic needs. Most of us don't know what it is like to have to live outside, in a garage, in a car or out of a backpack or worry that there isn't enough food to feed our family on a daily basis. To suffer the anxiety of these concerns is made even more difficult for those that don't have a support system to turn to - no matter how hard they work! EHP is a support system and the "ray of hope" for many who feel hopeless. It is so gratifying to know that EHP is able to change "hopeless" into HOPE for families in our community by providing emergency food, gently used clothing, household essentials, furniture and hygiene items as well as offering special support programs and referrals free of charge to their clients. EHP provides these services as a "hand-up" as opposed to a "hand out" in a caring and compassionate way. Donations of gently used items are not sold or stored but distributed immediately to people who really need them. This is a great benefit to their clients but also to everyone in the community as donated items do not end up cluttering our earth by staying in landfills forever. To see someone go to EHP for services who feels alone and uncared for, receive much needed help and leave with a smile on their face and hope for the future is incredibly rewarding. By volunteering or donating gently used items or sharing a financial contribution, anyone can join EHP in changing lives for the better and can be part of "Neighbors helping Neighbors with Food and So Much More!" Once you become a donor or volunteer at EHP and witness the immediate impact that your contribution brings, I think that you will find that you are giving yourself a wonderful gift! Reach out to EHP and change someone's life for the better today!

I spent a few days over the holidays helping in the food closet. Volunteers and staff members prepared many food boxes for families in the community for the holidays. Everyone worked
hard and efficiently with a sense of humor and much empathy for families in need.

A hand-up with integrity, confidentiality and respect is what Ecumenical Hunger Program model to those we serve. Staff and volunteers are courteous and always available to assist those in need. In addition to Food, EHP also provides clothing, furniture, household items, and monthly events such as Make-a-Birthday Wish for children whose family we serve, Ask-a-lawyer client, free weekly Wednesday Night meal at a local church, and more!
If you are in need of any of our good and services, please contact EHP today!

I have supported EHP since it started about 40 years ago. I am 85 years old and volunteer once a week. I see so many families helped by EHP. They receive food, clothing, and referrals for other needs.

I served on the board of EHP for several years, and have been a donor and volunteer. EHP is a wonderful place for families to volunteer together, especially at the holidays - kids from more affluent families get a chance to see how much they have to be grateful for, and to be reminded of how we are all human regardless of our circumstances. EHP is also a wonderful place to donate, secure in the knowledge that your donation will be used to help those in need rather than to line the pockets of executives. The staff, at every level, are paid modestly, administrative costs are kept to a minimum, and there is a strong ethic of using every dollar as carefully as possible in service of clients.

Ecumenical Hunger Program is a uniquely positive organization. The care and concern that
is provided to those receiving services speaks to the character of EHP. The organization mission is transformed from written words to active engagement with everyone who seek the goods and services EHP provides. EHP gives a "hands up" to those needing a food box, clothing, a hair cut, legal counsel, furniture, household essentials, and more! All services and goods are provided with respect, integrity, compassion and confidentiality.

I have volunteered at EHP since 1975. This program continues to assist families in dire need throughout the year. During the holiday season, the program provides additional support with food (turkey, ham, yams, etc.), toys, board games, senior gifts, etc. My job paid the bills and made life easier but this program gave my life purpose. I have met many wonderful people along way "clients and volunteers". A simple act of kindness can be the difference in a child having a meal Today or Not. It's the one place regardless of race, social status or political view....people work toward a common goal.

I have been volunteering at the EHP for years and can see how much it does for people who need clothes, linens, housewares, and furniture as well as food. We are currently providing Halloween costumes for children as well as the usual everyday items! We need sheets, blankets, and bedspreads, and now that fall has come we will need warm jackets, coats, gloves, scarves, rainboots (especially for children), and warm hats, not to mention clothes like sweatshirts and sweaters. Some clients are immigrants who have arrived with nothing, or people who have lost everything in a fire or other disaster. Please help!

Ecumenical Hunger Program is well-known in the community and helps a lot of people in need. The staff and volunteers are friendly and give great service.

Thank you EHP for all you do in the community!

I am a mom of two boys and I am currently attending school. We are a low income family and I cant afford to buy a laptop wich I need so much. I asked the people who work at the Ecumenical Hunger program of by any chance they have a laptop (to be honest, I never expected to get one) but they made me believe that angels does exist and I swear I cried! Thank you very much for making people who are in need feel that there is hope still in this world where sometimes others discrimonates us because we are not rich like them! Thank you very much God bless you guys

I was a homeless veteran for eight years when I was blessed to get a place of my own this month, but I had no furnishings and had been turned away by several local organizations. That's when a friend of mine told me about EHP. He drove me there and I was blessed and amazed! The staff was so kind and extremely caring. I was truly shocked with all that they provided for me: cookware, appliances, a totally gorgeous dinette set, a desk, bookcase, vacuum cleaner, etc. I still can hardly believe it!

Life has been really hard these last few years, but EHP made starting over so much easier. I truly appreciated their wonderful staff. There are many organizations out there that are trying to help people, but not one of them can hold a candle to EHP (the best kept secret in the Bay Area!)

Ecumenical Hunger Program is a staple in the community of East Palo Alto, CA that provides food, clothing, and furniture to low-income and extremely poor families. I have personally volunteered at this program and I noticed the extent to which they go out of their way to assist those in need. The staff is friendly, inviting, and very attentive to their clients. I have seen people walk away from their facilities with smiles on their faces and tears of joy rolling down their cheeks thanks to the services and caring environment that EHP is able to provide. The rest of the non-profits in the area could learn from the quality of service that EHP exhibits. Kudos to EHP and I hope they continue their good work for many years to come.

The memories I have of the nearly five years I spent working at the Ecumenical Hunger Program (EHP)- under Nevida Butler- are among the most precious and enriching in my life, for many reasons... All of EHP's efforts go directly into helping people/families in need- from offering food assistance and household items, to job search support- but I remember there was always a priority on serving with compassion and joy... Many times I saw people come into EHP looking depressed, and yet leaving with their heads held just a little higher. And that's largely because EHP is a 'community-builder': clients, volunteers and staff, all become part of an informal and life-enriching community support network. EHP is a gift.

When I needed help for the holidays they stepped in and gave to me. I have also seen families turn to to them in there struggle and they not only provided assistance but they cared and gave a real hug.

I have lived in East Palo Alto over 40 years and I can truly say without the help and kindness of EHP many families would be without food, clothing . furniture not to mention Christmas presents, Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for their families. School clothes and school supplies for their children to be ready to start the school year. EHP is a God Send to this community over the years.

EHP is a kind and loving non profit that does wonders for the community. Their generosity and welcoming arms will always resonate with me.

They helped to put much needed household items in the house and they all worked like brand new.

EHP is a great organization that helps people in need. Service given with compassion and respect to all!

EHP has been around for many years and has helped many families in need. Whether it be by providing clothing, food, toys, or household items, they are there for you. However they are not just around assist the unemployed or less fortunate, they are also there for people with full time jobs who may be just going through tough times and may need some assistance. The staff, Lisa, Leah, Kiesha, etc are absolutely the best and might I add they are all very professional and they treat everyone with respect and dignity. I love EHP

EHP is a great agency that provides food, clothing, furniture and other necessities to those in need. The staff and volunteers give service with compassion. EHP truly cares! I have been connected to this program for over 10 years as a volunteer and it has been a rewarding experience. Even though the program is in the business of giving; everyone involved receives something.

Ecumenical Hunger Program is a remarkable nonprofit that been serving East Palo Alto and nearby communities for decades. Although the name implies its core business is food assistance, the nonprofit does so much more! It also provides clothing, household essentials, counseling, and support for those who are experiencing hardship. The dedicated employees are truly amazing, and I am so proud and honored to be a supporter of EHP.

I have worked as a volunteer for EHP since 1985, and remain active in that role. It has impressed me as a high-integrity and high-energy organization that has remarkable compassion and sensitivity in a community, East Palo Alto and adjoining eastern Menlo Park, which are surrounded by affluence while their citizens struggle as the working poor.

I have served as a Board Member, Advisory Board Member (Friends of EHP, probono volunteer lawyer and for food distribution and delivery.

No other nonprofit group has touched my heart as much as EHP has, and this is due principally to its caring and capable staff, and its devoted volunteers.

Excellent organization with great staff serving a good cause.

I have volunteered at the Ecumenical Hunger Program for many years and it's a great program with a caring staff. Working at EHP has been very rewarding for me; helping people in need with food, clothing and furniture. Sometimes people come by just to talk and receive support from the staff and there is always someone available to welcome them and show care & concern. Growing up things were not easy for my family and I remember food boxes being delivered by EHP. This is why I became a volunteer - to give back to the community I grew up in and support the agency that helped my family in our time of need.
Thanks EHP!

The Ecumenical Hunger Program (EHP) is a great place. The staff truly cares about people and they work hard to help those in need with a variety of services. The true meaning of Neighbors helping Neighbors! EHP really cares...

7/17/2012: I stopped by Ecumenical Hunger Program in East Palo Alto to ask about potential volunteer opportunities for groups. They had an information sheet detailing different options, but they also needed help right now. They were preparing for their monthly food distribution, and needed help splitting the pallets of groceries into boxes for the 80-100 families that would be showing up in a little bit more than an hour. I offered to stick around, and was soon at work packing boxes: 2 large cans of pear halves, 3 smaller ones of peaches, 2 packs of tortillas, 4 smaller cans of apple sauce, 2 pound bags each of rice and pinto beans, a 64-oz bottle of spiced cranberry juice, a half-gallon of milk, a 2 pound bag of pre-washed salad, a watermelon and a cantaloupe. Other groups were packing meats (not sure of all that went into it, but looked to be a dozen eggs, a one-pound pack of hot dogs, a one-pound tube of ground sausage, and 2 1-pound packs of cold cuts (baloney or ham). A third group was packing fruits and vegetables. This being summer in California, there was a nice selection of nectarines, oranges, broccoli, corn, onions and probably more that I didn’t see.

At 5 PM, not only was the distribution done, but the area had been restored to its prior, clean state. Empty boxes were gone. The leftovers were in the food pantry. The tables were taken down and stored, and the parking lot had been swept. It was a remarkable display of efficiency, taking the volunteer efforts of probably a dozen people, some of us first-timers, and getting a large task done in a short time. Staff members Suliana and Jackie deserve credit for getting us all together to get everything done. Overall, a very positive experience.

I love volunteering at EHP. They do such wonderful things for the community. I have volunteered in lots of different areas at EHP, however I feel most connected when I pack food box for families.

Ecumenical Hunger Program is a wonderful agency, willing to help anyone in need. The staff gives friendly service and is very compassionate.

I have been involved with the Ecumenical Hungar Program, (EHP), have been as donor for 11 years & 9 years as their bookkeeper. What I have seen over the years is a caring and supportive program to help clients in their most dire times. Food, clothing, furniture is given to help the clients. Financial assistance for various utilities bills, partial rent pd, or money for gas, all given to clients, but only one time. In return I have seen clients turn their lives around, pull themselves up and no longer need assistance. There is now a summer program for children, Wednesday Nite Meals, Women's Support Groups besides their Holiday Program for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. I cannot say enough about EHP and it's programs. This is a 100% donor driven nonprofit, which is why since 2008 to current, EHP has still able to help the community.

I have been a volunteer, board member and donor of the Ecumenical Hunger Program for over 20 years. I have seen countless families helped, single women encouraged and so very many lives changed positively that I think the organization could be a model for the country. I know children whose mothers were clients who now have graduated from college and have positive lives and are role models for the community. I have also volunteered in many ways but seeing the Holiday distribution and how it boosts the spirits of families in need is always the best.

As an EHP volunteer, I have seen families receive boxes of food when they really needed it, clothing for parents to go a job interview, jackets for children when it was cold and gifts for children at Christmas.
I have delivered boxes of food to senior citizens who had no transportation or money for food.
Also, I have seen women receive counseling and support for the first time in their lives. What a difference that has made in the lives of their families!

I started volunteering in the Clothes Closet at EHP after retiring from teaching two years ago. I thought I would really miss my job since it had been so fulfilling, but EHP has made me "worn out with happiness". I work harder than I ever did at school and I just love it. The Closet provides donated and in good condition, clothing, linens, and kitchen items to people in need. Our clients are people from a variety of cultures, ages, and circumstances in the community. An African American woman can find a suitable suit for a job interview, or a retired couple can get blankets and sheets. A young Latino mother can pick out coats for her children, or a Pacific Islander can get pots and pans. A just released from prison white man can get boots and socks, and my favorite, elderly women, can look for new outfits for church. The staff is the hardest working group of people I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Everybody seems to be doing at least two projects at the same time, while being friendly, kind , helpful and caring to the clients and to the volunteers. So I say - Volunteer and improve YOUR quality of life!

Worked with them for a couple of years when they had to move from the space they were renting. Throughout the process of designing a usable space for themselves and their clients, they were concerned mainly for the people they served. They thought only about the needs of the people in the community and what would work best for distributing food and clothing. All the people in the organization pulled together and volunteered their time and money to help.

I was at first a volunteer for holiday food distributions, but I quickly wanted to get more involved when I saw the good EHP was doing in the community. I'm currently a board member for EHP, and am constantly touched when I see the hard work that volunteers and staff put into helping the community.

I've been volunteering at the EHP for two years now, following my retirement from full-time teaching. Although I also volunteer elsewhere by tutoring, being at the EHP allows me to help others with physical problems. I work in the clothes closet, mainly sorting donated clothing and putting it in the appropriate bin, on the right shelf, or on the correct rack. Sometimes I also deal with toiletries, kitchenware, and dishes. I also work with clients two days a month when we have clothing distributions to accompany food distributions. I enjoy the chance to use a little Spanish with many of the clients. I have also collected toiletries from former colleagues, to be given to the homeless.

EHP had been on my "radar" for a long time. For years I drove with my children to their various former sites in East Palo Alto to drop off donations. Then, two years ago I was planning my college Senior Project and looking for a non-profit organizationto work with. When I approached EHP, everybody there was friendly, personable and helpful- in spite of an inclredible daily workload - and the need in the community they support was so obvious that we came to an agreement right away. While running the project, I became a 'regular' volunteer and met the dedicated staff and volunteers; many have been with the organization for a long time, some even since the organization's beginnings in the seventies. After graduation I joined the board, where I met more friendly and committed people. Overall I have been most impressed with the warmth, compassion, respect, and tenacity that have kept this oganization afloat. If in any way possible, no client is turned away here, an approach that is only possible because EHP does not accept government funding, but relies entirely on donations and grants. I greatly enjoy the contact with clients and the wonderful people working at EHP. I am extremely impressed how this organization has kept operations running in times of greatest challenge. Each and everyone including many board members have pitched in to fill the gaps and make sure that this important community support survives. How essential EHP is becomes obvious when we take a look at its history, its growth over the years from a church closet to a designated disaster relief center and major provider of basic support for the poor. Currently the numbers of people seeking help, with food, housing, clothing, referrals for work, family and other issues, are rising, and donations, especially cash donations, are harder to come by. One of the biggest challenges for this organization has been that it has not been able - in spite of frugality - to retain a bigger financial cushion. Like many relief organizations, EHP needs and uses practically every dollar that comes in to help clients and keep its East Palo Alto campus running. Every week, clients come in for food distributions, furniture, diapers, bedding, clothes and shoes, and other necessities, and whenever we cannot provide what the client needs, because we ran out of comforters or school uniforms or children's size 10 shoes, I do wish I had the millions to invest in this great community asset; not only to be able to buy enough school clothes or make EHP more financially secure, but also to add facilities and expand essential programs, like Back-to-School, Tutoring, or Women's Support Group. EHP improves the lives of so many people every day, it is an indispensable resource in this area. The entire community profits from better educated, well-fed, well-housed, employed, and generally content members. The children, our so-called "future", which make up almost 50% of clients, need food, a stable home, parent support, and a decent education to become productive adults. As long as there are still families without food or housing, children without supplies or clothes for school, people without education, work or health care, we can all contribute to the general well-being of our communities by supporting organizations like EHP!

Before joining the board, I served as a volunteer and participant at various EHP events. Helping families in need in my community is truly rewarding, and I can't imagine not being involved in some capacity with charitable work. I am very happy to have chosen EHP as my charitable focus; the staff, board memebers, and volunteers are such caring and compassionate people. It is an honor to work with them.