About YAS

"Freely you have received, freely give." - Jesus

YAS started in 2002 when a small group of concerned Orange residents began gathering food, often from their own pantries, and distributing it to homeless individuals living on the streets. The program quickly grew in response to the great demand from people who simply needed to eat. YAS was incorporated in 2009. Our mission is to alleviate hunger in the City of Orange and nearby communities by operating a food pantry and by providing other safety net services, such as hotel vouchers, clothing and gas cards. In addition to Orange, we serve residents from the cities of El Modena, Santa Ana, Tustin, Villa Park and Anaheim. We serve anyone who requests food, no questions asked.

While initially founded as a program of Covenant Life Church, YAS is now a separate 501(c)(3) organization with an independent board of directors who are responsible for the finances and fundraising. Since our founding, the church has provided YAS with 1,300 square feet of rent-free space.

YAS is almost entirely volunteer-run, putting in over 15,000 volunteer hours in 2011. Food is donated from local grocery stores and restaurants as well as people in the community just dropping off food.

Items and services we currently need are:

1) Healthy non-perishable food items.

2) Local produce and dairy.

3) Strong shelving for the emergency food.

4) Reach in refrigerator.

5) Plain white grocery bags for weekly distribution.

6) Blankets, socks and jackets.

7) Cleaning supplies.

8) Feminine Care Products

9) Baby Diapers and Wipes

YAS is very thankful to our community for the support so many people give to us.

~Michelle Hensley