California Connects: How the Governor’s Office Is Bringing Collaboration and Service to Communities

November 5, 2025

California's Governor's Office is conducting an eight-city tour called California Connects Regional to strengthen community partnerships and improve access to state resources across the state. The Sacramento stop brought together community leaders, state agencies, and local organizations for workshops focused on collaboration, funding access, and volunteer mobilization. The initiative is particularly focused on addressing food insecurity, with $80 million allocated and California National Guard support to assist food banks amid expected increased demand due to reduced federal assistance.

Who is affected

Food insecure communities across California
Community-based organizations throughout the state
Food banks across California
Historically underserved populations
Community leaders and local partners in the eight tour cities (Los Angeles, Anaheim, Riverside, Oxnard, San Diego, Sacramento, and Fresno)
State agencies participating in the convenings
Residents who speak multiple languages across California

What action is being taken

The Governor's Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications (OCPSC) is hosting an eight-city tour of regional convenings
GO-Serve and California Volunteers are coordinating efforts involving $80 million in state funding
The California National Guard is being mobilized to assist food banks
Day-long workshops and discussions are being conducted to build partnerships and provide access to funding
The state office is working closely with food banks to provide support

Why it matters

This initiative is significant because it represents California's response to reduced federal support from Washington, D.C., particularly for food security programs. The program addresses growing social disconnection and isolation by breaking down organizational silos and fostering regional collaboration. It ensures that diverse, multilingual communities and historically underserved populations can access critical state resources and support. The convenings provide essential infrastructure for community-based organizations to strengthen their capacity to serve their communities effectively, particularly during times of increased need.

What's next

The California Connects Regional series will conclude on November 18 in Fresno.

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint