Since 1978, Food Share Ventura County has been on a mission to provide food for thousands of area residents.
“We rescue, collect, warehouse and distribute 20 million pounds of nutritious food, grocery items and diapers every year to people facing food insecurity,” says President and CEO Monica White. “The food is distributed through our network of 190 partner agencies—such as food pantries, shelters and meal programs—as well as through direct distributions.”
The philanthropic efforts of Food Share benefit all that are hungry in Ventura County.
“Food Share serves a diverse cross-section of Ventura County—families with children, seniors on fixed incomes, veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness and working adults that struggle to make ends meet,” shares Monica. “Hunger can affect anyone—and we’re here to help, without judgment.”
The county’s largest food bank is an important program for so many, but their efforts cannot happen without the help of thousands of volunteers and donations from the general public.
“Food donations are always welcome,” says Monica. “People can drop off nonperishable food at our Oxnard warehouse or participate in food drives throughout the year. We ask that donated items be unopened, unexpired and in good condition. The most requested items from our clients include canned vegetables, pasta, rice and peanut butter—foods that are nutritious, shelf-stable and easy to prepare.”
Emphasizing the importance of these donations, Monica notes, “Donations are vital. Every dollar helps us provide three meals. That kind of impact means donor support directly translates to food on someone’s table. And volunteers— they’re the heart and soul of our organization. From sorting food in our warehouse, to helping at drive-thru distributions, to gleaning orange trees, we rely on over 4,400 volunteers each year.”
Food Share recently hit a snag as the U.S. Department of Agriculture suspended shipments of food headed to the nonprofit.
“The suspension and cancellation of USDA food shipments has had a major impact on Food Share,” notes Monica. “Over 213,000 pounds of food—including milk, eggs, cheese and meat—were cancelled, representing about eight truckloads worth $400,000 of food. This disruption is particularly concerning given the increased demand for Food Share's services. Since 2019, there has been a 170% rise in the number of food recipients, resulting in over 250,000 individuals relying on Food Share’s hunger-relief programs last year. Financially, Food Share also faces potential cuts, as it receives $838,000, or 10%, of its budget through various USDA programs. Community support—through donations, volunteering and food drives—is more important than ever.”
People can help by volunteering, hosting a food drive, spreading awareness about food insecurity or even writing a check.
“Every action—big or small—helps us get food to those who need it most,” says Monica.
Learn more at FoodShare.com.
“Hunger can affect anyone—and we’re here to help, without judgment.”