EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Emergencies and natural disasters are an ever-present threat on the Central Coast. When disaster strikes, the Food Bank for Monterey County is prepared to help our neighbors in need. We are the only local nonprofit with the capacity to respond and offer immediate assistance. We have a professional fleet of trucks equipped and ready to distribute life-saving food, water, freshly prepared & culturally appropriate hot meals, diapers, and other vital provisions during disasters and evacuations caused by flooding, fires, earthquakes, pandemic, or extended power outages that can completely disrupt Central Coast communities for days or even weeks, at a time. Providing children and families in need with healthy food during emergencies is one of the most essential services we are committed to providing. 

The effects of the pandemic and recent flooding and fire disasters have only magnified food insecurity across Monterey County. These disasters have devastated our neighbors with children, seniors, young mothers, and hospitality and agriculture workers.

We mobilized our food bank team to provide essential resources directly to hard-hit communities such as Pajaro, San Ardo, and Big Sur, with daily food, water, clothing, and personal care items for individuals and families. Our Food Truck has been a source of hope and hot, nutritious meals for thousands of families in the past year alone.

We operate over 240 direct distribution sites and stock emergency pantries and meal programs across Monterey County.