History of Food for People

Food for People first opened its doors in 1979 as a small food closet. Food distribution grew steadily from those humble beginnings, and over the next 17 years, operations were conducted out of a small local residence, utilizing rented warehouse space a few blocks away. Food was provided for several pantries located throughout the county, in addition to the direct distribution we hosted for those who could make it to the food bank. Access to refrigeration and freezer space was extremely limited. By 1996, we were bursting at the seams and ill-prepared to accommodate the steadily increasing requests for emergency food assistance.

In 1998, thanks to support received through a Community Development Block Grant, a grant from The California Endowment, our Harvest Home capital campaign and the generosity of local citizens, churches, businesses and civic organizations, we were able to purchase and retrofit the 9,000 square foot warehouse in Eureka that now houses our food bank. This space includes a large walk-in cooler and two walk-in freezers.

Food For People, Inc. is designated as the official food bank for Humboldt County. Our mission is:

• To provide emergency and supplementary food to those in need.
• To improve food access through expanded participation in gleaning and gardening projects.
• To conduct advocacy and outreach for local, state and federal food assistance programs and other activities.
• To involve low-income households in self-sufficiency programs.
• To encourage self-sufficiency in the community as a whole.
  

Food For People currently operates a total of 13 programs, each of which is designated to address the needs of those who are experiencing hunger and food insecurity. In 2005, our food bank received and distributed over 1.6 million pounds of food.