The Stockton Emergency Food Bank is bracing for a significant surge in demand due to the unfolding circumstances at the U.S. border.
The CEO, Leonard Hansen, anticipates a substantial increase in the need for food supplies in the coming months, particularly due to the influx of undocumented individuals seeking to start anew in San Joaquin County.
Hansen noted that the new residents hail from various regions, including Mexico and as far as Venezuela. These groups often form a substantial part of the clientele during food distributions. “You see that people are from extended families, and they have family members who joined them,” Hansen observed.
While individuals must show proof of residency to sign up for a local food assistance program, Hansen assured that no one would be turned away in need of a food box. However, he noted that the escalating financial difficulties for families and the situation at the border will further strain food banks.
As the economy faces potential downturns, Hansen warned of an impending crunch affecting both monetary and food donations, while the need for food bank services increases. Consequently, the food bank is making strides to ramp up its preparedness.
Stocking up on supplies ranging from water bottles to canned goods, the food bank is also seeking additional partners for food donations and leveraging grant money to purchase more food supplies. “It’s always a little bit of a struggle, but it is something we can handle,” Hansen assured.
Since 2019, the food bank has seen a rise in the number of families and individuals served, increasing by roughly 100,000 each year. Hansen noted that this trend is considered in their annual plans and budgets, stressing the importance of foresight, a lesson underscored by the pandemic.
To ensure they can meet the escalating local need, the Stockton Emergency Food Bank is also boosting its volunteer base.