Food for People to Hold Two Emergency Drive-Thru Distributions Amid Government Shutdown
Food for People is organizing two emergency drive-thru food distributions this Thursday in response to the ongoing impacts of the government shutdown. The shutdown has created uncertainty around benefits that thousands of North Coast residents rely on to purchase groceries, and has left many local federal workers without paychecks.
Carly Robbins, executive director of the nonprofit, explains that the distributions will operate similarly to those held during the pandemic. People will be able to drive up to the designated locations and have a food box placed in their vehicles, minimizing contact and ensuring efficiency.
The two distribution sites are:
– College of the Redwoods main parking lot, 7351 Tompkins Hill Road, Eureka
– Hoopa Valley Food Distribution building, 12479 State Route 96, Hoopa
Both events are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine.
Food for People kindly asks participants not to arrive too early, as early arrivals can complicate set-up logistics. Robbins mentions, “Things should go pretty quickly,” and the organization plans to have enough supplies to serve 1,000 people. For comparison, the largest distribution during the pandemic served 750 people experiencing food insecurity.
“Our goal is to be able to help everyone who comes to us,” Robbins says.
Food for People, the largest food bank in the county, has seen a significant increase in demand across all its programs. Robbins notes a 37 percent rise in requests for assistance at the Eureka location alone, largely driven by lost benefits and fears about insufficient food access.
While the nonprofit is prepared to respond during emergencies, the government shutdown is adding considerable strain as thousands of county residents face heightened needs.
“Our team is doing a great job of problem-solving and pivoting,” Robbins adds. “It’s definitely a lot to manage in a short period of time.”
This surge in demand comes at a challenging time, as Food for People is also coping with funding cuts from the Trump administration, and with the holidays fast approaching.
However, Robbins highlights a positive aspect amid the difficulties: “The bright spot in all of this has been the people who have reached out to help—whether by donating food, money, or their time.”
She continues, “That has been a wonderful thing to see. The community of Humboldt County really cares for everyone and shows up for one another.”
Monetary donations are especially valuable given the food bank’s ability to buy in bulk and maximize resources. To learn how to donate or receive assistance, please visit [foodforpeople.org](https://foodforpeople.org).
For those in need who are unsure where to begin, click on the “Find Food Near You” button on the website to locate the closest distribution site.
https://www.northcoastjournal.com/news-2/news-blog/emergency-food-distributions-thursday/