Good morning, Fresno.

Fresno Mission leader Matthew Dildine and local champions promote innovative care at City Center where people access meals+shelter and support; national groups now visit to study Fresno’s model as they plan similar projects elsewhere.

The Central Valley Community Foundation celebrated 60 years of local service on Monday, Jan.

5—marking decades of support for nonprofits and community efforts in Fresno. Its renewed approach aims to address lasting challenges and expand opportunities for residents.

Bowes Animal Rescue says emergency vet bills for three poisoned dogs have nearly exhausted its funds and left the group unsure if it can care for more strays.

The rescue, which cares for about 20 dogs, plans to continue its work despite its financial challenges.

Fresno Pacific University’s Center for Community Transformation received over $1.3 million in grants to support businesses and startups in 11 rural communities (Sanger, Reedley, Parlier, Cutler, Orosi, Dinuba, Kingsburg, Selma, Laton, Caruthers and Kerman).

The awards, including a USDA grant and a five-year Lilly Endowment award, will fund listening sessions, training programs and expert support for economic growth.

The MLK Unity Committee is presenting the 42nd annual celebration this week.

The events start Friday with a garlanding ceremony at Courthouse Park, continue with a community breakfast in Clovis on Saturday, a peace vigil at Impact Church on Sunday, and a commemoration program on Monday at Veterans Memorial Auditorium.

The Fresno Chapter of the California Restaurant Association will honor Sam Toledo with a Lifetime Achievement Award and induct Bob Farrar, Frank Paolilli and Virginia Paolilli at the 2026 Best of the Valley Restaurant Awards on Tuesday, March 24 at Table Mountain Casino Resort.

Tickets are available.

Farmers in the Central Valley have received 7 inches of rain since Oct.

1 — more than double last year's amount — and they hope for more storms to boost water supplies while experts note that snowpack levels remain below average.

Financial experts advise Fresno residents to start the new year by focusing on essential spending for housing, food, and transportation.

They recommend a written budget and protecting major purchases (such as insuring items) to ease debt stress and safeguard assets.

Dentists remind patients to ask for oral cancer screenings during routine appointments.

Dr. Pooja Mehta advises asking about warning signs (to catch issues early) to help detect cancer sooner.

Novo Nordisk introduced the first oral weight-loss pill on Monday, offering 1.5 and 4 mg doses through pharmacies (including CVS and Costco) and Telehealth companies; local doctors say the pill provides a needle-free option and expect competition to drive prices down.

A new Bankrate study finds that buyers now need 43% of their income for median-priced homes instead of the long-standing 30% rule as rising prices and higher mortgage rates squeeze budgets.

Fresno offers down payment assistance programs for low-income homebuyers and urges researching local grants.

Fresno State announced on Sunday that the NCAA granted top wide receiver Josiah Freeman an extra year of eligibility, allowing him to return for 2026 after a career-best season and a four-game 2024 injury spell.

Fresno State vs. Utah State Women's Basketball

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Save Mart Center — Reserved premium parking available — Cheer on the Lady Bulldogs as they take on the Aggies in an exciting basketball showdown.

2026 Fresno State Polopalooza Tournament

All day — Student Recreation Center — Check website for details — Dive into a thrilling weekend of water polo competitions and activities.

Southwest Indoor Sectionals & National Series 2026

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — 8555 N Cedar Ave, Fresno, CA — Early registration required — Compete in the Indoor Sectional format and aim for the best score in archery.

Breakfast Gathering at MiMi's Cafe

8-9:30 a.m. — MiMi's Cafe — RSVP required — Enjoy breakfast in a welcoming community atmosphere.

Martin Amini Live Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Tower Theatre for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with standup comedian Martin Amini.

Jerry Maguire 30th Anniversary Screening

8-9:30 p.m. — Historic Crest Theatre — No entry fee listed — Celebrate the 30th anniversary of a classic film with a fun screening event.

Sweetheart Dance 2026

2-5 p.m. — Clovis Veterans Memorial District — Donations accepted — Dance the evening away with your sweetheart at a lively celebration of love and community.