The EFB created a new food distribution path in the last few weeks, placing a Pop-Up Pantry in a charted Homeless Encampment each Wednesday. We are working in partnership with United Way and the CARES Act to reach out with non-perishable, easy-to-use food for homeless clients in Stockton. View the video by clicking this link to see one of the Pop-Up Pantries, serving about 175 clients.

In 2021, the EFB is the operational and educational partner for Abbott Fund and the Public Health Institute. This 6-month project will provide food boxes, food menus and nutrition education through online ZOOM instruction to 400 residents with diabetes in two Stockton neighborhoods. The project includes referrals from Community Medical Centers, El Concilio and Dr. Kwabena Adubofour’s clinic. Alex Marapao and Emily Simpson, our Nutrition Educators are deeply involved and excited to be a central part in the creation and execution of this project. There is resolve on Abbott Fund’s part to move the Project into 2022, expanding the reach to 1,000 residents.

The COVID-19 Pandemic continues to challenge the EFB with a greater demand for food distribution. As we are creating new paths, we work daily to distribute food to partner pantries and clients at the Main Pantry. On a recent Tuesday, we served 330 automobiles in our "Touchless Tailgate" distribution line at the Main Pantry, with an additional 240 automobiles picking up pre-packed groceries for 211 DoorDash clients. Our food distribution this year was 161,185 pounds weekly, which was 47.6% higher than 2019, which was 76,747 pounds weekly. We are grateful for your support of the EFB and your interest in our new and on-going programs. 6.4 million Californians endure food insecurity; that number grew by 2.1 million in the Pandemic Year of 2020.

Again, Thank you for your continued support.

Dr. Leonard Hansen, CEO