Giving Thanks for Food Banks

Food banks throughout California are gearing up for the holiday season, a time when so many people are in need and the gift of food can take on a special meaning. Every single one of CAFB’s 43 member food banks needs volunteers and donors to help them meet the tremendous demand for holiday food.

At the California Association of Food Banks, we are constantly amazed by the myriad ways our members find to raise holiday food, funds and volunteers. Here’s a sampling of innovative holiday programs in the CAFB network:

The Community Food Bank in Fresno is hosting two Holiday Meal Packing days and an Empty Bowls fundraiser event to auction off beautiful ceramic bowls hand-crafted by local students.

Asociación de Acción Comunitaria del Condado de Orange is encouraging supporters to host toy or food drives, support an online food drive, participate in an adopt-a-family program with customized wish lists, or provide holiday meals through direct donations of money or gift cards.

Second Harvest Food Bank de los condados de San Joaquin y Stanislaus is dedicating an entire web page to Turkeys R Us – a simple, clear message asking for donations to purchase almost 2,000 turkeys for families in need this Thanksgiving.

Banco de alimentos Redwood Empire in Sonoma County is bringing convenient donation opportunities directly to potential donors – enabling people to donate food or money through their local grocery store and retail shops.

Whatever the method, California food banks are providing opportunities for individuals, schools, churches, and businesses to express their gratitude and help their neighbors in need during the holidays.