Our History
Four Decades of Serving Our Neighbors
What began as a community meeting in 1986 has grown into Utah County's most comprehensive resource center for people experiencing homelessness.
How It Started
A Community That Chose to Act
In April 1986, local religious leaders, public officials, and concerned citizens gathered in Provo to confront an uncomfortable truth: Utah County had almost no services for people experiencing homelessness. There was no shelter, no organized meal program, and no central place for people to get help.
That meeting led to the formation of Friends of the Coalition — a grassroots group determined to change things. By 1988, they had incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and begun serving hot meals out of a small facility. The Food & Care Coalition was born.
From the beginning, the model was clear: a small, dedicated staff supported by an army of community volunteers. That philosophy hasn't changed. Thousands of volunteers still show up every year to help run programs, prepare meals, and support patrons on their journey to stability.
Our Impact
Four Decades of Service
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Years Serving Utah County
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Meals Served Since 1988
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Housing Units Built
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Volunteers Each Year
Our Journey
Milestones That Shaped Who We Are
Founded as a 501(c)(3)
Friends of the Coalition incorporates as a nonprofit and begins serving hot meals to people experiencing homelessness in Utah County — the county's first organized response.
New Home on Freedom Boulevard
The Coalition moves to a renovated facility on Freedom Boulevard in Provo, pilots a mentor outreach program, and doubles its service capacity.
First Permanent Building
Purchases and renovates its first owned building — a 6,000 square foot facility with a classroom and computer lab for patrons pursuing employment and education.
Free Dental Care Launches
Partners with the Share a Smile Foundation to provide free dental services on-site — a life-changing addition for patrons who had gone years without dental care.
$6.2 Million Capital Campaign
After completing 30+ site visits across the country, the Coalition submits plans to Provo City and launches a $6.2 million capital campaign for a purpose-built facility.
36,000 Sq Ft Facility Opens
The new facility opens its doors — six times the size of the original building, with dedicated spaces for meals, case management, hygiene services, and community programs.
First Housing Units in Utah County
Opens 38 on-site transitional housing units — the first dedicated housing for people experiencing homelessness in Utah County's history.
Legal Aid Partnership
Establishes the Timpanogas Legal Center, providing monthly legal outreach to help patrons navigate housing disputes, custody issues, and benefits claims.
On-Site Healthcare Arrives
Partners with Mountainlands Community Health Center to offer medical, dental, substance abuse treatment, and counseling services — all under one roof.
Candlelight Villas Opens
After three years of planning, fundraising, and construction, opens 72 one-bedroom permanent supportive housing units across six buildings — the largest addition to homeless housing in Utah County's history.
Hydroponic Greenhouse
Completes a hydroponic greenhouse in partnership with Brigham Young University, growing fresh lettuce and vegetables for the meal program while teaching patrons agricultural skills.
Leadership
Brent Crane, Executive Director
Brent Crane has served as Executive Director since the Coalition's earliest days, guiding its growth from a small soup kitchen into one of the most comprehensive homeless service centers in the state.
Under Brent's leadership, the Coalition has grown from a small meal program into a comprehensive resource center with housing, healthcare, dental, legal aid, and employment services — all guided by the belief that every person deserves dignity and a path forward.
Meet Our Full TeamRecognition
Awards & Honors
2013
Distinguished Community Partner
Utah State Bar Pro Bono
2011
Innovator of the Year
State Homeless Coordinating Committee
2011
Allied Agency of the Year
Wasatch Mental Health
2009
Senator Reed Smoot Community Service Award
Provo-Orem Chamber of Commerce
2009
Excellence in Ethics
Center for the Study of Ethics, Utah Valley University
2006
Presidential Award
Corporate Alliance
Success Story
“You all helped turn around my life and deserve more than I can possibly give you in return.”
Be Part of the Next Chapter
For Four decades, this community has shown up for its neighbors. There's still work to do — and your support makes it possible.