SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – A local nonprofit is working hard to rescue surplus produce and help families facing hunger as needs rise in the community.
The process starts at dawn at Rincon Hill Farms in Carpinteria. Workers rush to pick and sort fresh crops before the heat kicks in.
“We’re using undercover crops to protect the soil,” says Chloe Lobdell, the farm’s director. While some produce goes to stores, much is left behind. But that doesn’t mean it’s useless.
<p“Even in winter, we have plenty of root vegetables and lettuce,” Lobdell adds. This fresh food goes to Veggie Rescue, a nonprofit in Santa Barbara. They have rescued over five million pounds of surplus food from farms and grocery stores, delivering it directly to those in need.
David Roberts, the program director, emphasizes, “We save food that would end up in landfills. All our food is donated and we distribute it within 24 hours.”
Veggie Rescue collaborates with nearly 70 partners, including schools and shelters throughout Santa Barbara County. Executive Director Eryn Shugart notes, “We’re excited to donate to so many organizations, but demand is rising faster than our supply.”
Food insecurity is climbing due to cuts in federal benefits and shrinking food bank budgets. Shugart mentions, “With fewer resources, more families are struggling.” This has led to a waiting list for organizations seeking fresh food, something Veggie Rescue hopes to change with more community help.
“I don’t want anyone to go hungry in such an abundant place,” Shugart says.
As evening falls, Veggie Rescue’s work shifts to the State Street farmers market. Driver Kevin Kemp collects unsold produce from vendors wrapping up for the night, filling his van with greens, berries, and tomatoes bound for shelters and meal programs.
“They could’ve held onto it, but they chose to donate,” Kemp remarks. Small donations make a big difference, accumulating a few hundred pounds at a time. “It all adds up,” he says.
Each harvest represents hope, showing that the answer to hunger lies in the abundance around us. In a recent survey, 37% of families reported facing food insecurity—up from 30% last year. As organizations like Veggie Rescue continue their vital work, the goal is clear: eliminate hunger and ensure that fresh produce reaches those who need it most.
For further information on food insecurity and its impact, you can refer to the [Food Research & Action Center (FRAC)](https://frac.org). Their resources shed light on the ongoing challenges and solutions related to hunger in America.
