At Community Resource Center (CRC), we see the reality of food insecurity every day. 1 in 4 San Diegans doesn’t know where their next meal is coming from, according to the San Diego Hunger Coalition. This includes 172,000 older adults and 216,000 children. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent real people in our community, some of whom rely on CRC for their next meal.
Recently, I had the privilege of joining our dedicated truck driver on a Fresh Rescue food pick-up, and it was the highlight of my week. We spent the morning picking up donated food from several local grocery stores, carefully loading the donations into our truck, and then delivering them to CRC’s Food & Nutrition Center. There, the food was sorted by our caring volunteers, ready to be available to those in need.
Witnessing firsthand the commitment of our driver, volunteers, and staff to delivering hope to our food-insecure neighbors was truly inspiring. It’s a powerful reminder that the work we do together is making a real difference in our community.
Each year, our Food & Nutrition Center distributes over 505,000 pounds of rescued food, serving an average of 570 households each month, including families, seniors, and individuals experiencing homelessness.
How Food Rescue Works at CRC
We’re committed to turning surplus into sustenance through our Food Rescue Initiative. Here’s how it works:
- Donation: Food that would otherwise go to waste is donated by local food rescue partners, including grocery stores and organizations dedicated to alleviating food insecurity.
- Collection: Items are picked up by our truck or donated directly to our pantry.
- Sorting: Volunteers sort and stock the food at our pantry.
- Distribution: Households in need select food at our pantry.
This process ensures that food is not wasted but instead provides nourishment—and hope—to those who need it most.
Get Involved
Together, we can ensure that everyone in our community has access to nutritious food, support and resources to create a brighter future. Here are ways you can contribute to our efforts:
- Volunteer: Interested in delivering hope yourself? We currently have opportunities to assist with our truck food rescue pick-ups and deliveries, specifically on Wednesdays or as an on-call substitute volunteer. To learn more, visit crcncc.org/volunteer and complete the application, noting your interest in this role.
- Donate: You can make a monetary contribution, donate non-perishable food and personal care items, or even donate homegrown produce at one of Healthy Day Partners’ donation stations.
- Host a Drive or Fundraiser: Learn more about hosting a food or personal care items drive! You can also help by partnering with us for a give-back fundraiser. To learn more, please contact us at Development@crcncc.org.
Let’s continue to work together to fight hunger and deliver hope to those who need it most.
