Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom volunteered at the Sacramento Food Bank, packaging Thanksgiving meals for families in need. Their efforts highlight the critical role of food banks in addressing food insecurity in Sacramento County, especially during the holiday season.
The Newsoms joined Sacramento State students at the River City Food Bank, located at St. Matthews Episcopal Church, to prepare holiday meals. “Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and giving back to the community,” they stated, emphasizing the importance of helping those less fortunate.
River City Food Bank, established in 1968, is Sacramento’s oldest continuously operating food bank. Initially a small food closet at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, it now serves almost 231,000 individuals annually, including children, families, seniors, and vulnerable populations. Open five days a week, the Sacramento food bank provides assistance to anyone experiencing food insecurity in the county.
In 2020, the Sacramento Food Bank distributed 2 million meals, a 30% increase from the previous year, demonstrating the growing need for food assistance. This significant increase was supported by 1,654 volunteers who dedicated a total of 18,615 hours. The holiday season traditionally sees increased demand at food banks, and the pandemic has further exacerbated this need.
Food banks across California and the nation are experiencing unprecedented demand for both food and volunteers. Californians are encouraged to contribute by volunteering their time at a local food bank or donating to a nonprofit organization. Find volunteer opportunities near you at californiansforall.ca.gov.
