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The Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank recently broke ground on a brand new facility in Thousand Oaks. As an essential part of the community, Manna has made it their mission "To feed hungry people in the Conejo Valley." Currently situated in a 700 square-foot house, the concept of Manna is unique in that the organization provides people in need the opportunity to "shop" their pantry for items most relevant to them. Another distinguishing characteristic of Manna is their ability to exist without a formal affiliation with any religious entities or federal funding. Operating from donations and funding through grants, the Manna website states that "more than 95% of the food Manna distributes each year is donated by organizations, businesses, and individuals from around the Conejo Valley."

On Wednesday, July 28, 2021, the Manna Board of Directors hosted a groundbreaking event with attendees from the community. Interim Executive Director Leanne Portzel and President of the Board Darin Arrasmith led the event attended by Councilmember Ed Jones, Thousand Oaks Mayor Claudia Bill-de la Pena, Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, and other dignitaries. The crew donned hard hats and held golden shovels while celebrating the momentous occasion that has been in the making for years.

The new food bank facility located off of Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks totals around 5,576 square feet and includes a receiving/sorting area, warehouse storage, and a pantry. For additional storage, there is a 1,732 square foot basement area. The move from a 700 square foot house to an over 7,000 square foot facility will give Manna the ability to service the community in the best way possible. Additionally, the new facility makes spectacular use of an existing church building considered a historical fixture in the community. Designed by Lauterbach and Associates Architects, Inc. out of Oxnard, CA, construction of the project includes a renovation to the existing structure with a new expansion and basement.

For the latest happenings at Manna, follow along on social media @StaplesConstruction!