San Diegn Food Bank The Food Fight

Of the county’s 3.1 million residents, nearly 500,000 live in poverty, unsure of where they will get their next meal. For 35 years, the Jacobs and Cushman San Diego Food Bank has been feeding these less-fortunate neighbors. As the largest hunger-relief organization in the area, it is the last defense against local families going hungry. And its efforts have nourished the county at large.

The San Diego Food Bank serves 350,000 people per month, distributing more than 20 million pounds of food this year. The nonprofit operates from its main distribution center in Miramar, as well as 153 food distribution sites across the county. Characterized as "the Costco of the charity world," the Miramar site houses and provides food to many nonprofits with feeding programs. In fact, more than 14,000 pounds were distributed to churches, food pantries, soup kitchens, after-school programs for low-income children, rehabilitation and mental health centers, and senior centers this past year.

This past holiday, Jerome’s Furniture, Wells Fargo and Vons partnered with the food bank to raise funds and collect food for families in need. The goal was to raise as much food as possible for the holiday distribution and to store for future winter months, ensuring that people in need get the food they require to survive. Because while the holiday season may be when donors are the most generous, hunger continues throughout the year.

"Food is needed year-round, not just during the holidays," said Chris Carter, Vice President of communications, marketing and public affairs for the food bank. "Our goal is to ensure people are getting the food they need."

Donations are accepted at the food bank and many partner companies. The food bank is especially looking for high-protein canned foods such as tuna and canned meats. Canned soups, fruits, vegetables, peanut butter, and dry goods such as cereal, pasta and rice are also greatly appreciated.

Not only does the food bank provide thousands of people with fresh and nutritious foods, it is also a gateway to other social services. Volunteers and employees use their connections to help sign up for job, health, shelter and education services. The food bank also has a food stamp program for low-income families.

This year is looking just as jam-packed as last year. The food bank hosts many food drives and events to kick-off the new year, including the Martin Luther King Food Drive, in which 90 local high schools are participating. The food drive is accepting donations at each high school. This month, the food bank will hold its first gala, a silent auction, at the main warehouse.

For those interested in helping, there are several ways to get involved: by donating food, time or money. Food can be donated at any of the distribution locations, and volunteers can register on the website for a shift at the main warehouse where everything is inspected and packaged for families. The organization also accepts monetary donations online, and volunteers can also host their own food drives.  

For more information, visit sandiegofoodbank.org