our mission
At FISH (Friends in Service Helping), we believe in offering more than just a handout – we offer a HAND UP. Since 1979, we've been committed to revitalizing rural Northern Nevada by meeting essential needs and empowering individuals to build brighter, more sustainable futures. From food and shelter to education and healthcare, we’re here to walk alongside our neighbors every step of the way.
our core services
Food Bank and Family Dining
No one should have to choose between paying bills and feeding their family. Our food banks offer emergency groceries and pantry staples to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. And for those without access to daily nutrition, our Family Dining Room provides daily hot meals served with dignity and compassion.
"Without FISH, I wouldn’t have been able to feed my kids when things got tough. They didn’t just give me food—they gave me hope."
Life Skills Instruction
We know that lasting transformation begins with the right tools. Our life skills programs offer training in areas like budgeting, job readiness, parenting, and wellness—equipping participants with practical knowledge for long-term independence and success.
"These classes have helped me feel more prepared for what’s ahead. This is all so new, and I just want what is best for my kids... it is encouraging to know I am not doing this alone."
Emergency Shelters and Transitional Housing
More than just a place to sleep—we provide a path forward. Our emergency shelters offer immediate refuge for individuals and families facing homelessness. For those ready to take the next step, our transitional housing programs offer stability and structure while clients work toward long-term independence.
“When I came to FISH with my daughter, I was scared but determined. They gave shelter, support, and the belief I needed to grow. FISH helped me rediscover my strength and my future.”
Healthcare, Vision Care, and
Dental Care
Access to basic healthcare should never be a luxury. FISH offers medical, vision, and dental services through the Ross Medical Center to individuals in need. Whether it’s managing a chronic illness or receiving a much-needed eye exam, we’re here to help our clients stay healthy and thriving.
"If it weren’t for the timely intervention at the Ross Medical Clinic, my appendix could have ruptured, causing more serious complications. Their attentiveness and care made a real difference."
Student Housing & Learning Center
Our Revitalization and Student Housing Initiative provides reduced-cost housing to students—often single parents—pursuing education or workforce training in high-demand fields. The on-site Learning Center offers tutoring, mentoring, and a safe environment for children and adults to focus on their goals.
"Having a safe and affordable place to live while I finish school has changed everything for me and my family. I finally feel like I'm supported and that I’m building a future I can be proud of."
Two Regional FISH Thrift Stores
Our thrift stores support our mission by generating income and providing affordable clothing, furniture, and household items to the community. Shopping and donating to FISH Thrift Stores help fund our life-changing programs and offers job training opportunities to those we serve.
"I will always be grateful to FISH for giving me the clothes I needed and the confidence I was missing to apply for (and get) a job. FISH has always been an open door and a helping hand."
Your Support Changes Lives —
Right Here at Home
Whether you’re serving a meal at our family dining room, sorting donations at the thrift store, stocking the shelves in the food bank, or making a monthly gift—you are part of something bigger. You’re not just supporting an organization—you’re helping transform lives across Northern Nevada.
At FISH, we believe in the power of community. Every contribution you make - time, talent, and financial resources, directly impacts the lives of neighbors in need.
95% of every dollar donated goes directly into programs and services that provide food, shelter, healthcare, and life-changing resources to individuals and families.
99% of our funding comes from local sources—proof that when a community comes together, incredible things happen.
90% of our team is made up of dedicated volunteers, who give their time and heart to serve others with dignity and compassion.
FISH "by the numbers"
In our last fiscal year, we delivered critical services to those in greatest need:
Clients Served
6,659
Nights of Lodging
6,114
Meals Provided
548,492
Utility Assistance
$36,515
Medical Visits
312
FISH provides direct services, and referrals to help individuals and families overcome the hardships they face. Together, these resources provide a higher quality of life for families, children, veterans, people with disabilities and seniors in our community. The overriding goal...self-sufficiency.
Partnering for Success in Carson, Douglas, Lyon, and Storey Counties...and beyond.
We help train medical, nursing, and social work students, who team up with our 30 employees and 400+ volunteers to provide Food, Instruction, Shelter, Healthcare and other services.
We also collaborate with government entities, local colleges and universities, and other social service organizations. We provide database access and referrals so our community can partner more effectively.
Latest Happenings in the FISH Bowl
Join the FISH Team as we are out and about in the community
- Empty Bowls 2026Sat, Oct 10Ogres Holm Pottery - Carson Mall