Advocacy

Every day, families across California are forced to choose between paying for essentials like rent and utilities or putting food on the table. CalFood is a critical safety net that helps families access fresh, culturally appropriate foods—including produce and proteins—through food banks, while also supporting local California farmers. This year, the state-wide coalition of food banks is asking for $110 million to ensure CalFood remains a lifeline for children, seniors, working families, and members of our military. Every dollar helps keep nutritious food flowing to communities facing an ongoing affordability crisis.

Since 2017, the San Diego Food Bank’s Diaper Bank Program has distributed more than 40 million diapers to families in need, helping children stay in childcare and supporting working parents. Diapers are essential but unaffordable for many, and without them, families risk losing access to care and opportunities to work or attend school. With state funding set to expire in June 2026, we’re urging legislators to renew this vital program at $16.5 million annually to keep families supported and children cared for.