Last month, we welcomed partners from across the region to our annual Food Donor Recognition Luncheon for a meaningful afternoon of connection and celebration.
Hosted in our volunteer center — the heart of our daily operations — the event offered a firsthand look at how generosity moves from donation to distribution, reaching hundreds of thousands of neighbors across San Diego County each month. More importantly, it was an opportunity to celebrate the individuals, businesses, and organizations who make that impact possible.
“This day is really about celebrating you,” said CEO Casey Castillo. “Your generosity, your partnership, and the incredible impact you help make possible every single day.”
A Year of Meaningful Impact
Thanks to the collective efforts of more than 450 nonprofit partners, the Food Bank distributed nearly 53 million pounds of food and essential supplies last year, providing more than 43 million meals to the community.
Food donors played a critical role in that impact. Whether donating inventory, organizing food drives, supporting retail rescue, or finding new ways to give, food donors are essential to keeping shelves stocked, trucks moving, and neighbors nourished across San Diego County.
In 2025 alone, food donors contributed more than 7.2 million pounds of food and products, including more than 1.7 million pounds of fresh produce. These contributions came in many forms — from retail rescue and large-scale donations to community-led food drives — each one helping ensure families have access to the food they need.
Behind every number is a story: a parent able to prepare meals at home, an older adult no longer forced to choose between groceries and medication, a veteran finding stability through consistent access to food. Together, these efforts help ensure that no one in our community has to face hunger alone.
Recognizing Outstanding Partners
While every food donor plays an essential role, the luncheon also highlighted a group of partners whose extraordinary contributions stood out over the past year.
Congratulations to this year’s award recipients:
Not pictured:
Hunger Hero Champion: Scripps Ranch High School AFJROTC
Fresh Start Champion: Trader Joe’s
From record-breaking one-day food drives to innovative virtual campaigns and consistent fresh food donations, each of these partners demonstrated leadership, creativity, and a deep commitment to the community.
View more photos from the event to relive highlights from this special day of celebration.