“Savings are drying up and even more people are facing food insecurity as the crisis continues. We want everyone to know that we are here to serve the entire community. If anyone needs help finding food safely, that is our main priority,” said Judith Smith-Meyer, communications manager of the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County.
The Foodbank is working hard to ensure our county stays healthy and has enough nutritious food to eat during the COVID-19 situation.
Here are 5 easy ways you can make a difference today:
- Donate: Financial donations go the furthest! They allow us to leverage our unique bulk buying power and relationships to maximize the amount of food that can be purchased per dollar.
- Volunteer: Our volunteers are assembling over 6,000 bags of food a week, delivering groceries to seniors at home, and supporting our operations all around. Currently, we have a high need for Emergency Response Delivery Drivers, who perform our no-contact grocery deliveries to seniors’ doorsteps using their own vehicles. Click “Volunteer” to sign up! You will be asked to create an account. Opt in to receive emails about what volunteer opportunities are available and how you can join!
- Make a mask: We need homemade masks for our staff and volunteers to ensure we can operate safely. They can be dropped off at 4554 Hollister Ave or 490 W. Foster Rd. on Friday between 10-11:30am. Donated masks must meet CDC recommendations. If you have store-bought PPE, please bring those to a donation site to be redirected to emergency and medical staff.
- Donate Food: If you have excess shelf-stable food you would like to donate, please bring it to 4554 Hollister Ave between 1 and 3pm only, or to the bin located outside at 490 W. Foster Rd.
- Start a Fundraiser: Make a team with friends, family members, or colleagues and compete to see who can raise the most money for a great cause!
