FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Fresno County has received a 2024 Meritorious Service Award from the National Association of Counties for the kitchen renovation of Poverello House.
Officials say the award recognizes innovative and effective county government programs that enhance services to residents.
The Fresno County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved $2.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for 2023 to assist Poverello House in renovating and building a new kitchen to serve meals to homeless and food insecure people, making it the first free restaurant for those in need in California, officials said.
Officials say the entire $2.5 million was spent on renovating the kitchen.
“This award from NACo rewards the Board of Supervisors’ vision to reduce food insecurity, recognizes the hard work of those in the CAO’s office to expedite this ARPA allocation, and thanks the special accounting team in the Audit and Control Department for ensuring compliance with financial requirements,” County Administrative Director Paul Nerland said.
Officials said the NACo Achievement Awards annually recognize programs that excel in 18 categories that align with the broad and comprehensive range of services the county provides. Click here for more information.
