Serving Sonoma County since 1987, the Redwood Empire Food Bank (REFB) has grown to serve every area of the county: from Petaluma to Cloverdale, Sonoma Valley to Occidental, and everywhere in between. We have developed three major hunger initiatives to provide low-income children, seniors and families their most basic necessity – nutritious food.

Impact: The REFB operates a county-wide pantry and emergency food system with over 200 distributions each month, providing staple groceries and healthy produce to anyone in need of help. We also are a major source of food for a network of 178 other hunger-relief organizations that include pantries, dining rooms, kitchens and shelters. In addition, we provide food to Lake, Mendocino, Humboldt, and Del Norte Counties through smaller food banks and charitable organizations. The REFB is a cost effective investment in the community. This year the REFB: Is in the top 6% of food banks nationwide in amount of food provided per person in poverty. Served 82,000 of our low-income neighbors each month (1 in 6 people in Sonoma County). Brought more than $22 million worth of food into the county from local, regional and national sources. Distributed 14.5 million pounds of food, which is the equivalent of over 33,000 meals a day. Provided food for two wholesome meals for every $1 spent. Served nearly 400,000 prepared meals to children afterschool and during the summer. Enlisted 4,200 volunteers who donated over 80,000 hours - the equivalent of 40 employees. 82,000 people in Sonoma County face the threat of hunger every month: 36,200 are children 11,800 are seniors 13,500 are working families

Project Availability:

Volunteer Responsibilities: Volunteers may package/bag fruits or vegetables, stock shelves, organize/inventory warehouse goods.

Attire: Closed toed shoes are mandatory because it is a warehouse environment.

F&B Provided for Volunteers: No

Option to Move Project to a Different Location: Yes. A barrel can be brought to a local convention venue where food, goods and financial donations can be accepted.