#MemberMonday: Placer Food Bank

It’s Hunger Action Month, and this week’s #MemberMonday is Placer Food Bank. PFB is tireless in their mission to fight hunger and improve the efficiency of their operations. In 2022, this has meant adapting, changing and developing programs to better serve the community and meet people where they are right now. Here are some highlights:

PantryToGo

One of PFB’s most impactful developments in 2021-2022 was the expansion of their PantryToGo free food drive-thru distributions at 10 locations in Placer and El Dorado Counties. This past year, they dis­tributed more than 1.3 million pounds of food, serving more than 62,000 individuals in more than 18,000 households.

Emergency Preparedness

PFB is prepared to deliver emergency food supply for natural disasters, which is especially critical in the rural communities in Placer, El Dorado and Nevada Counties. They stepped into this role more formally last summer during the intense wildfire season, partnering with emergency responders and other disaster relief organizations to support their neighbors in dire need.

Warehouse Expansion

PFB will begin renovating 44,000 square feet of warehouse space adjacent to their existing one in Roseville, thanks to a grant received from California Department of Social Services. The opportunities available with such a large footprint are incredible and they are eager to complete renovations and get things up and running!

We couldn’t do what we do with the support received from CAFB’s Farm to Family program and the thousands of pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables that we distribute as a staple at our PantryToGo distributions and through our network of hunger-relief agency partners. On behalf of our team at PFB, thank you CAFB!

Jorge Lupercio, Director of Operations

Staff Growth

With food assistance needs continuing to increase, over the past two years, Placer Food Bank has doubled their staff to build capacity and efficiently extend their reach. Most recently, they hired a lead food sourcer and fundraising engagement manager. They are working to improve and expand their Feed our Future program — which includes their kids backpack, family school pantry, low-income senior distributions, and CalFresh outreach.

An important part of PFB’s growth includes a growing corps of volunteers. This past year they introduced an online volunteer portal, where volunteers can learn more about volunteer opportunities, see images of volunteers in action, and access online volunteer tutorials.

What PFB has accomplished over the past 50 years has not been achieved alone. “Our membership with CAFB is vital and supports our efforts to end hunger — as we relentlessly advocate that hunger is a public health issue and for all to receive nourishment is a human right,” states Lisa Heinrich, PFB’s Director of Development. There are also the corporate, community, and individual donors who faithfully give their financial support — and many giving of their time, as well, to ensure PFB never skips a beat to help their neighbors in need.

You can follow Placer Food Bank on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.