Skip to main content

The Yield

When you think of California, agriculture might not be the first word that comes to mind, but the Central Valley is known for agriculture and our investment into farmland. California produces 13% of the United States’ food source and is the highest Ag producing state. Unfortunately, the same people who pick our food fall between the cracks and don’t always have access to the resources they need.

That’s where The Yield comes in.

The Yield is a unique, multi-year investment for United Way Fresno and Madera Counties. This program does more than address basic needs, such as food and housing, to the community. We work one-on-one with families to address the underlying issues and come up with solutions that completely change the situation. These resources can range from job placement, financial coaching, and mental health services. United Way is there to get them lasting results. This work can take anywhere from 18 to 24 months.

Prosperity Centers

Part of The Yield is coordinating and integrating systems and services to provide families with a deeper level of individual support. Our Prosperity Centers are designed to be Hubs. These Hubs can be run by schools, community-based or health care organizations, universities, housing authorities, workforce centers, and so on. The key is for the community to invest in themselves and to educate about the services available. In this case, United Way is not the main service provider, but we act as a broker — identifying needs, finding resources, and making connections. 

The Yield in Action

One example of this model is our “More Than a Back Pack” program. United Way, in partnership with Fresno State University, provides students with a backpack and school supplies. United Way and Fresno State are investing in the students and walking alongside parents to get their child college ready.