The Mendocino County food network is facing a critical crisis that threatens to leave thousands of vulnerable community members without essential nutrition. Recent funding cuts have devastated local food assistance programs, forcing difficult decisions that directly impact those most in need.

Amanda Friscia, executive director of the Fort Bragg Food Bank, revealed shocking details about the network’s struggle. In April, they were forced to eliminate two crucial pantry coordinator positions and scale back critical programs supporting families and seniors. Despite serving almost 30,000 individuals and distributing 2.6 million pounds of food in 2023, the organization is now experiencing dramatic financial constraints.

The funding shortfall is particularly brutal: government grants and private sources, which previously comprised 40% of their budget, have been significantly reduced. Last year’s administrative funding of $72,497 from the USDA has dramatically decreased, with the network already losing $21,303 in the first phase of funding.

Mary Tinder, the network’s development director, described the situation as “pretty dire”. The organization has been compelled to make heart-wrenching decisions, including laying off employees, reducing curbside pickup services, and cutting manager hours. Some popup food distribution sites have been reduced from twice monthly to just once, leaving approximately 200 people without access to critical food resources.

The challenges are amplified by Mendocino County’s geographic landscape, where long distances and limited transportation make accessing food distribution sites increasingly difficult for vulnerable populations. The Fort Bragg Food Bank is now desperately seeking community support through financial donations, volunteering, and food contributions.

For those wanting to help, the Mendo Food Network welcomes donations, volunteers, and food contributions. Every contribution matters in sustaining this vital community lifeline during an unprecedented funding crisis.