Looking back at 2021

As we ring in 2022 and move into the new year, let’s take a moment to look at what West Valley Community Services accomplished in 2021.

To start, early in the year, we operated through the completion of our facility remodel– made possible by our Capital Campaign– and in early Spring, we made it our home. We continued to develop and adapt our ongoing programs to the changing environment. And we thrived even within changing Covid constraints, expanding support for our clients through new programs and growing partnerships with volunteer organizations and civic groups. Read on for more detail.

The Remodeled Facilities and Park-It Market Program

• Moved back to Vista Village in April after it underwent the Capital Campaign remodel and expansion.

• Reopened the WVCS Market, providing clients with a more traditional grocery store experience and expanded inventory to align with our values of dignity, integrity, and service.

• Successfully managed simultaneous food drives with various partners that filled our pantry to the brim.

• Relaunched and expanded the Park-It-Market (mobile food pantry) to 7 alternating locations.

Ongoing Programs

• Distributed more than $1.35M in financial assistance and support to clients in our community.

• Increased the number of participants in the Rapid Rehousing program for folks who lack housing.

• Expanded our VITA services to meet increased demand for free tax preparation assistance.

• Ran widely successful special programs–Back to School and Gift of Hope-- both of which served more people than any previous year.

New Programs

• Started a new job training pilot program in partnership with the City of Cupertino.

• Launched an advocacy program with an online presence and an educational component that empowers clients to use their voices through writing letters to elected officials and speaking at city council meetings.

Building Community

• Presented an incredible (and widely lauded) virtual Chefs of Compassion with the highest attendance ever.

• Continued the Social Justice Book Club online.

• And last but not least, launched this blog!

So, we look back on 2021 with appreciation for our accomplishments in serving those who lack shelter or face food insecurity, and thanks to all the donors and partners that made this work possible. We are also looking forward to 2022, and building on these successes to even more effectively serve our community’s needs.

Thank you to all our staff, volunteers, supporters, and clients who give purpose and possibility to our work.

Sincerely,

The WVCS Community