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Community · Riverbank

Support That Residents Can Actually Use.

Refugio de Bienestar is connecting families with donated clothing, food, education, computers, mental-health resources, and a stronger local support network.

Published August 20, 2026 · Community resource summary

More than 150 people reportedly attended a recent clothing giveaway at St. Frances of Rome Catholic Church in Riverbank. Families selected clothing, toys, and books through an event coordinated by Refugio de Bienestar.

The organization’s name translates to “sanctuary of well-being.” Its reported work reaches Riverbank and surrounding communities including Oakdale, Escalon, and Ripon.

Clothing and supplies

Community giveaways have distributed clothes, toys, books, and seasonal items.

Food support

Volunteers recently organized a food distribution through the church.

Computer education

Participants completing reported computer classes are expected to receive a new computer.

Well-being

The organization connects women and families with educational and mental-health resources.

Turn a good story into a usable directory.

Residents need current class dates, registration rules, language availability, transportation details, eligibility requirements, childcare information, and a reliable contact point. Community reporting works best when it does more than celebrate an event—it helps the next person participate.

If a program can help somebody, the article should make the next step unmistakable.

For information reported by the original source, residents can follow Refugio de Bienestar on Facebook at @rdb.riverbank or contact facilitator Mary Lu Ruiz at 209-605-4470. Confirm current offerings directly before traveling.

Source: Original reporting and program contact details from the Oakdale Leader. This Gazette page is an independently written resource summary.