Every day, families across California face impossible choices—between paying bills like rent and utilities or buying groceries. Sadly, one in four San Diegans experience nutrition insecurity, unable to provide three nutritious meals per day for themselves or their families. The CalFood program is a critical safety net that helps ensure no one in our state goes hungry.

What Is CalFood?

CalFood is a state-funded program that allows families to obtain fresh produce, and other California produced foods via food banks, like the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank. This also includes high-demand, but rarely donated nutrient-dense food like milk, eggs, and meat. 

As the official CalFood provider for San Diego County, the program has enabled the Food Bank to provide our region with:

• Locally sourced fresh produce
• Culturally important foods that reflect the diverse communities we serve
• Proteins and other high-value items that are often out of reach for struggling families

Why CalFood Matters Now

Over the past year, CalFood funding allowed us to respond quickly to federal policy changes and government shutdowns, getting food to families when they needed it most.

This year, food banks across the State have joined together in asking the legislature for $110 million to ensure CalFood remains a lifeline for California families. Every dollar ensures families receive nutritious food, supports local farmers and food producers, and keeps California communities strong.

The Stakes Are High

Without full funding, families could lose the ability to obtain the level of nutrition they rely on. At a time when affordability pressures are growing and federal programs face uncertainty, CalFood is more important than ever.

Take Action:
Help protect CalFood and ensure that no California family goes hungry.