Frequently Asked Questions

We don’t distribute food directly to people, but we know many places that do! Find your local food bank by visiting our directory and contact them directly for more information on how they can help. 

A food bank isn't only a warehouse filled with groceries – it's a lifeline for communities facing hunger. Teams at these non-profit hubs work tirelessly to source, organize, and distribute essential supplies to thousands of low-income and displaced families, seniors, and individuals.

Most rely on volunteers, and whether it's fresh produce from local farms, shelf-stable staples, or pre-packaged meals, food banks fight hunger by giving people the nourishment they need to thrive.

Some also organize additional community support, such as pop-up farmers markets, senior outreach, after-school nutrition programs, backpack giftings, diaper distributions, and professional and technical workshops.

The government provides food to agencies, such as food banks, so they can distribute the food to local organizations like soup kitchens and food pantries that serve the public. 

The food is given to eligible recipients for household consumption, or the organizations use it to prepare and serve meals in communal settings. Read here for information on how we assist California food banks and nonprofits. 

TEFAP commodities are distributed to recipients who meet specific eligibility requirements, while food boxes can generally be distributed to anyone in need.

The state determines each food bank's yearly allotment for state-funded programs. The allotment is based on a food bank’s distribution frequency and rate. 

If you’re an Eligible Recipient Agency (ERA), you are expected to attempt to serve a minimum of 25% of your 60/40 target population each month. 

All distribution sites must distribute food at least once per month, and it’s up to your discretion to decide the location and number of distributions necessary to avoid service gaps. 

 Contact us, and we’ll help you come up with a solution!