Unlocking Healthy Eating: How the Junior League of San Diego is Transforming Food Access with Innovative 2025 Projects

The Junior League of San Diego (JLSD) is tackling food insecurity in the area with innovative projects this year. So far, they’ve wrapped up three of four key initiatives aimed at directly helping families. Their efforts come as part of a larger commitment, investing over $12,000 along with countless volunteer hours.

This year’s focus on food insecurity has led to several impactful projects:

• San Diego Food Bank’s Client Choice Pantry Produce Displays (completed) – JLSD funded two new displays to streamline the food selection process. During one volunteer shift, they bagged 971 pounds of pears and 853 pounds of zucchini to be distributed to local families.
• Coastal Roots Farm’s Planting Project (completed) – Volunteers assisted in planting vital crops and coffee trees, boosting sustainable food production and ensuring fresh food reaches those in need.
• PATH’s 4th of July Feast for Friends Hot Lunch Program (completed) – JLSD played a role in providing a festive meal for residents in temporary shelters, creating a sense of community and joy during challenging times.
• Interfaith Community Services’ Cooking Class Program (Fall 2025) – Coming up, JLSD will host cooking classes to teach participants how to prepare healthy, affordable meals on a budget, giving them skills for the future.

Nicole Lichtenwalner, vice president of the Community Action Council at JLSD, shared her excitement about leading the Community Council team this year. “It’s rewarding to see our efforts genuinely impact San Diego. The support from our members and partners has been inspiring, and we’re eager to grow these projects even more,” she said.

Since starting their Community Improvement Projects in 2022, JLSD has invested over $20,000 in local initiatives. This effort reflects a growing recognition of food insecurity as a pressing issue. According to a recent study, nearly 1 in 7 San Diegans struggle to access sufficient food, highlighting the critical need for community support.

For more on JLSD’s commitment to outreach, explore their initiatives here.