Loaves And Fishes Of Contra Costa

Hunger can affect people from all walks of life. Many Americans are one job loss or medical crisis away from food insecurity. Even as our economy is better, unemployment rates may be lower, the stock market is up and the housing market is once again at an all-time high there is still a need for LFCC services in Contra Costa County. CCC still has a homeless population that are living on the streets, and very low to low income residents who can no longer afford to purchase a home or rent. There are more and more seniors who are being pushed out of their homes because they can no longer afford the rent. 1,200-1,500 people living in Contra Costa rely on the Loaves and Fishes program each year for healthy food for themselves and or family. Loaves and Fishes has been in Contra Costa since 1983 and is a reliable source of healthy food for many individuals and families living in CCC. Food security means having enough food to live a healthy, active life. Not everyone in Contra Costa County has enough food. According to California Food Policy Advocates, over half of adults in low-income households in Contra Costa County run out of food. Having enough nutritious food is important for an individual’s health and to do well at work and school. Loaves and Fishes is a warm friendly environment where individuals and families can receive free hot meals and access to a food pantry to help make healthy meals away from the dining room. The LFCC food pantry provides over 240 tons of food per year (approximately 180,000 meals), including fresh produce. Loaves and Fishes addresses the issue of hunger. Contra Costa County has lower income neighborhoods, especially along the Highway 4 corridor, where the LFCC dining rooms are located: (Pittsburg, Martinez, Antioch, Bay Point and Oakley). For over 35 years, Loaves and Fishes has served the hungry of Contra Costa County.