Mission

To collect and distribute food, clothing, furniture, books and other provisions to cover basic living necessities for farm labor workers living and working in Monterey County.

The Big Idea

Nancy’s Project has been delivering food, clothing and household necessities to Monterey County farm worker families since 1971. Those decades of interaction with our farmworker community have taught us what works: ensuring adequate nutrition for growing children and hardworking adults, delivered by our steadfast volunteers; sustaining relationships with our grocery partners and raising funds for additional purchases to keep the quality food flow going; getting children ready with shoes, backpacks and supplies for the new school year to set them up for success; helping families with the must-haves—clothes, footwear, underwear, diapers, towels, bedding and household products. The prices of all these necessities have shot up in the last five years but farm worker incomes have not. Our big idea is to continue to do what works: helping families meet these crucial basic needs despite increasing costs.

I am the Principal of Sherwood School, an elementary school in East Salinas whose students largely come from families of agricultural and other low-income workers. As people of color, our students are frequently overlooked. In July our students were the beneficiaries of the Nancy’s Project shoe giveaway. Their feet were carefully measured and they each got to select a pair of new shoes for school. The atmosphere was celebratory with bubbles and entertainment. They felt seen and cared for. This event helped give them confidence that they are worthwhile and set them up for success for the school year. Thank you Nancy’s Project.

- Everardo Marquez