San Francisco Marin Food Bank secures $12M grant for food assistance programs

The San Francisco City Commission convened on March 5, 2025, to discuss critical funding modifications for food assistance programs aimed at supporting vulnerable populations in the city. A significant focus of the meeting was the San Francisco Marin Food Bank, which plays a vital role in providing nutritional support to thousands of residents, particularly older adults and individuals with disabilities.

One of the key agenda items involved a request to modify an existing grant agreement with the food bank for its home-delivered grocery program. This modification, amounting to $116,213, will enable the food bank to deliver over 77,000 additional grocery packages to nearly 5,000 consumers by the end of June 2025. The program is designed to reduce food insecurity by delivering groceries directly to those who face barriers in accessing food, such as mobility issues.

Tiffany Kearney, the lead nutritionist for the Department of Aging and Adult Services (DAS), emphasized the importance of this program, noting that it not only provides essential food support but also helps maintain a centralized waitlist for services. Currently, there are 478 individuals on the waitlist for home-delivered groceries, highlighting the ongoing demand for food assistance in the community.

The commission also approved a new grant agreement for the food bank, which will run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2029, with a total funding amount of $12,604,048. This grant will support a comprehensive food assistance program that includes both pantry sites and home-delivered groceries. The food bank is expected to provide 310,000 units of food support annually, ensuring that eligible consumers receive nutritious meals that align with dietary guidelines.

Commissioners raised questions regarding the increase in funding despite a decrease in the number of unduplicated consumers served. Kearney explained that many individuals are accessing services more frequently due to heightened needs, indicating a shift in consumption patterns rather than a reduction in service reach.

The discussions underscored the city's commitment to addressing food insecurity and supporting its most vulnerable residents. As the San Francisco Marin Food Bank continues to adapt to the growing demand for food assistance, the commission's actions reflect a proactive approach to ensuring that all community members have access to nutritious food. The next steps will involve monitoring the implementation of these programs and exploring additional funding opportunities to further support those in need.