Because everyone deserves access to fresh food—and to feel seen, cared for, and nourished.

A Community Tradition Rooted in Love

Every Thursday, something extraordinary happens at Daystar. It’s not flashy. It’s not loud. But it’s full of life. Volunteers line up crates. Baskets overflow with color. The air smells of citrus and earth. Neighbors arrive, greeted with smiles and helping hands. And just like that, another Free Produce Thursday begins.

This weekly tradition is one of Daystar’s most beautiful offerings—not just because of the food we share, but because of the spirit of love, compassion, and belonging that fills the air.
At Daystar, we believe that food is more than nourishment. It’s a symbol of care. It’s a way to say, “You matter. You’re not alone. We’re here for you.”

What Makes Thursdays Special?

Thanks to local farm partnerships and community supporters, we’re able to offer free fresh produce every Thursday to anyone who walks through our doors.

What kind of produce do we offer? It changes with the seasons—just like life.

• In spring, you might find lettuce, herbs, and juicy tomatoes
  
• In summer, expect eggplant, papayas, and beans
  
• In fall and winter, hearty greens, sweet potatoes, and citrus are ready to go
  

Each bag is packed with intention—not only to fill stomachs but to uplift spirits.
There are no qualifications, no paperwork, no judgments. If you need food, you are welcome here.

Why Fresh Produce Matters More Than Ever

For many families, fresh food has become a luxury. The rising cost of groceries, gas, rent, and utilities means healthy eating often takes a back seat.

It’s easy to say “eat better”—but not everyone has that choice. That’s why Free Produce Thursdays matter so deeply.

When someone receives a bag of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables from Daystar, they’re not just getting food—they’re gaining:

• Health and nutrition for themselves and their children
  
• Relief from financial pressure
  
• A sense of care and belonging that reminds them they are seen and valued
  

This is the kind of help that lifts people up—not just for today, but for the long road ahead.

A Mission Grounded in Care

We don’t believe people should have to “prove” their need to be treated with kindness.
We don’t ask invasive questions or require documents.
We believe in trusting people’s stories and offering help with open hearts.

This is especially important for documented immigrants in our community—individuals who are working hard to build a better life, but who often face barriers when seeking help.
At Daystar, those barriers come down. Everyone deserves to feel safe, supported, and respected—especially when life is hard.

Volunteers Make It Happen

Behind every free bag of produce is a group of passionate, hardworking volunteers.
They wake up early, unload trucks, sort through fruits and vegetables, and greet every visitor with love.

Some have been with Daystar for years. Others show up once a month or bring their children along to help.
No matter their role, every volunteer plays a part in making Thursdays feel like home.

Want to get involved? We’re always looking for kind-hearted people to join the team.
You don’t need experience—just a willingness to serve with joy.

How You Can Help Sustain This Program

Free Produce Thursdays are made possible through donations, volunteers, and partnerships with local farms. But to keep this beautiful tradition alive—and to expand it—we need your help.

Here are a few ways to support:

• Give monthly – Your recurring donation helps us purchase fresh produce year-round
• Volunteer – Lend your time on a Thursday morning and see the impact firsthand
• Share the story – Spread the word about Daystar’s mission with your community
• Host a produce drive – Partner with local growers or grocery stores to collect food
• Honor someone with a gift – Donate in honor of a loved one who believes in giving back

Whether you give time, funds, or a kind word—you are part of this mission.

Love, Not Leftovers

At Daystar, we don’t believe in handing out scraps or leftovers.
We believe in offering our best. Because that’s what love does—it gives generously. It gives with dignity. It gives without expectation.

Every Thursday is a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together to meet real needs with open hands and open hearts.
We don’t just give food. We give hope. We give respect. We give a reason to believe in something better.

Join Us This Thursday—and Every Thursday

Whether you need fresh produce, want to volunteer, or simply want to see what community love looks like in action—you are invited.

Together, we’re growing something beautiful.
Because food is love.
And love, when shared freely, changes everything.

Visit us this Thursday at Daystar’s Food Pantry—and come experience the joy of giving and receiving.

Car Credit and Daystar Raise Their Hands to Help

Daystar Life Center is a strategic partner of Nuevo en US, an organization whose mission is to support immigrants and the nonprofits that serve them.Both Nuevo en US and Daystar are deeply grateful to Car Credit and its owner, Steve Cuculich, for supporting their efforts to educate and empower individuals who are struggling to meet their basic needs.

Heide Cornell, Executive Director of Daystar, takes pride in the wide range of services her organization offers:“There is no one-size-fits-all solution for individuals and families,” she explains. “At Daystar, we create Individualized Assistance Plans and walk alongside our neighbors on their path to stability.”