Food Security

What is Food Security?

Food security means having enough food to live a healthy, active life. Not everyone in Contra Costa County has enough food. According to California Food Policy Advocates, over half of adults in low-income households in Contra Costa County run out of food.

Having enough nutritious food is important for your family's health and to do well at work and school. There are many places where you can get free food to help make healthy meals for your family. Using food programs like CalFresh (food stamps), the food bank, WIC, and school lunch can help you stretch your food dollar and buy more fruits and vegetables, and other healthy foods. It will help you to feel "food secure."

If you are hungry and need food now, please call 211 or the Food Bank at 855-309-FOOD (3663). They will tell you where to get a box of food at a food pantry or a distribution site near your home. They will also tell you where you can get a hot meal and how you can apply for CalFresh.