The City of Irvine, in partnership with local businesses and organizations, is holding an emergency food drive Saturday, November 15, to support Irvine residents affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Together with the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce, OC Hunger Alliance, and South the City is calling on the community to come together in support of neighbors facing food insecurity.
Donations of nonperishable food items can be dropped off between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Irvine Civic Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza.
As the shutdown continues, funding for CalFresh/SNAP benefits remains at risk, leaving more than 16,000 Irvine residents uncertain about where their next meal will come from. Local food pantries are feeling the strain, reporting a 492% spike in calls for help. Together, the Irvine community can provide much-needed support and help meet the demand.
Donations will be distributed to Irvine food pantries to assist residents in need. Most needed donation items include:
- Cereal
- Canned veggies
- Rice (1–2 lbs. bag)
- Canned pasta
- Canned soups
- Canned meats (tuna, chicken, etc.)
- Canned fruits
- Canned beans
- Mac and cheese
- Peanut butter (12 oz. or 16 oz.)
- Pasta (dry)
- Pasta sauce
- Diapers (sizes 3 and up)
- Baby wipes
In addition to nonperishable food items, community members can make a monetary donation that will help Irvine pantries buy fresh produce, dairy products, and protein at ochungeralliance.org/irvinesnaprelief.