They say...

that you can’t bottle or box happiness. We say, “Just watch us.” We are here to feed, clothe, and serve some of the poorest individuals in Ventura County. This is what we do.

..So now, of course, more people have a reason to smile.

Paul Janowski
Director

Food Pantry: Sat 8-11am
Tutoring: Mon & Wed 4-6pm
2857 Cortez Street, Oxnard, CA 93063

About Us

In January of 2008, we became aware of one of the most underserved and impoverished areas in Ventura County: Nyland Acres and El Rio. Oft forgotten and invisible to most of us, these communities are made up of hard working individuals and families who frequently have to make difficult life decisions.

El Rio Food Pantry is a non-profit organization that was created as a direct response to the need in these communities. Food and clothing are distributed directly from the El Rio area each Saturday, and tutoring is provided each week.

What We Do

In a nutshell, we are a 100% volunteer-based force that gathers food, clothing, and donations during the week, and then distributes these donations during the weekend. We deliver food and necessities to residents where the need is apparent (usually disability of some kind), respond to individual need-based requests (often for such basic items as beds, tables, etc.), and provide emotional support to our clients. We also offer our Kid Power Tutoring program twice a week, which provides initial assessments and tailored tutoring sessions by experienced tutors and credentialed teachers.

Wherever You Are

…you can help.

We accept donations for food and clothing. If you find that some of your own non-perishable food items are just sitting there, taking up precious real estate on your pantry shelves, feel free to come by and see us and drop your donations off. If you have clothing that has been pushed to the back of the closet and has little likelihood of seeing daylight anymore, collect it and bring it on by. All quality donations for food and clothing are appreciated. Our volunteers come from local areas and surrounding counties, and financial contributions come from around the world.