SD Food Bank Thrives Amid Reduced Federal Aid and Rising Local Demand: How They’re Meeting Community Needs

The San Diego Food Bank is facing significant challenges as federal food assistance programs undergo cuts starting in the 2026 Fiscal Year. CEO Casey Castillo highlights that the uncertainty surrounding resources makes planning difficult for nonprofits and food recipients alike. The San Diego Hunger Coalition estimates that about 850,000 people in the county—around one in four—struggle to secure three nutritious meals daily.

This year, the food bank anticipates distributing 7 million fewer pounds of food compared to previous plans due to reduced government support. Last year, they managed to exceed their goal by distributing over 52 million pounds, serving more than 400,000 people each month.

The food bank operates a fleet of 30 vehicles that deliver food to 200 sites monthly and collaborates with around 450 nonprofit partners. Karissa Wilburn, the communications manager, notes that decreased resources are intensifying the challenge of meeting existing demand.

To cope, the organization is considering using reserve funds to buy more food, though this may mean offering less variety. Optimistically, Castillo recalls how the food bank responded effectively during crises like the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a sudden rise in demand from 300,000 to 600,000 people monthly. That surge required quick decision-making and significant financial resources.

Current demand remains above pre-pandemic levels, and Castillo acknowledges that with the pullback of federal assistance since March, the food bank must increase food purchases to sustain mission efforts.

Additionally, ongoing cuts to USDA programs threaten vital supplies. Castillo pointed out a 23% budget cut for the USDA and an anticipated shortfall of nearly 2 million pounds from the Commodity Credit Corporation, which has provided protein-rich foods like meats and dairy.

The cancellation of the Local Food Purchase Assistance program, a $420 million initiative to help food banks buy local produce, further aggravates the situation. The food bank had been purchasing about $30,000 worth of local produce weekly, building connections with local farmers and enhancing food variety for clients.

Demand for food assistance continues to rise, especially as approximately 65,000 San Diegans are set to lose access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to recent legislation. Lorena Galligan, director of a local nonprofit, notes that as SNAP funds dwindle, many clients flock to community meals at month-end, putting pressure on available resources.

Wilburn emphasizes the rise in individuals seeking food assistance, driven by economic uncertainties and the high cost of living in San Diego. The food bank is bracing for increased demand as federal support decreases, while grocery prices remain unaffordable for many families.

In conclusion, the San Diego Food Bank’s situation reflects a broader trend of growing food insecurity amidst reduced resources. As local nonprofits adapt, the community’s hunger continues to spotlight the importance of resilient support systems.

For more details on what the San Diego Food Bank is doing to address these challenges, visit their official site: San Diego Food Bank.

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