As we move into the season of gratitude and togetherness, it’s a time to pause and appreciate the simple comforts that bring us joy – good food and good company being one of many. Sadly, many families in our local communities are facing empty cupboards and hard choices right now more than ever.

Over the last two weeks, California food banks have experienced their highest surges in demands since the pandemic. Delayed CalFresh (SNAP) benefits and the ongoing federal shutdown are leaving millions of Californians without reliable access to food. Nearly 5.5 million food-insecure residents, 170,000 federal employees, and 1.8 million military-connected households are feeling the strain of missed paychecks and delayed assistance.

Food is one of life’s most basic necessities – it’s comfort, security, and the foundation of a healthy life. No one should ever have to skip a meal or wonder how they’ll feed their family; everyone deserves the peace of knowing there will be food on the table. When our neighbors go hungry, our whole community feels it.

To help make a difference, as a region we’re supporting a GoFundMe campaign benefiting nearby food banks working tirelessly to provide essential nourishment and hope to those in need. On average a $1 donation is providing 3 meals to individuals and families right here in our communities.