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Navigating the Hunger Crisis: Reflecting on the Redwood Empire Food Bank’s 2023 InitiativesEmpty Bowls 2023: A Tradition of Unity to Help End HungerVital Support for VeteransRedwood Empire Food Bank Stands by Maui Residents Amid WildfiresNews & EventsPage 3Making a Dierence: The Power of Volunteering at the Food BankCommunity FinancePage 4In 2023, the Redwood Empire Food Bank provided food assistance to local veterans, serving 2,100 individuals who have served our nation. Veterans often face unique challenges that can lead to food insecurity, including unemployment, health issues, and family responsibilities.The food support plays a crucial role in ensuring veterans have access to nutritious meals, reducing the stress of putting food on the table. This assistance allows veterans to focus on rebuilding their lives, pursuing opportunities, and maintaining their health.turning to the food bank for assistance.Rising Costs Impact OperationsThe unrelenting rise in gas and food prices elevated the food bank’s operational expenses. Nevertheless, the organization continued to serve an average of 57,000 individuals each month, a number not seen since the peak of the pandemic in mid-2020.The Ongoing Struggle in 2023Throughout 2023, thousands of families faced the daunting challenge of securing food for their daily meals. Ination pushed basic staples out of reach for vulnerable families, creating an urgent need for community support.A Plea for Generosity in 2023In the face of rising food prices, the Redwood Empire Food Bank remained committed to providing As the wildres raged in Maui, the Redwood Empire Food Bank stepped in to offer much-needed support. The food bank’s generous donation of 16 pallets of Clif Bars, accompanied by heartfelt well-wishes from food bank team members, provided hope during challenging times.Just as the Redwood Empire Food Bank received help during the Sonoma Complex Fire, they reciprocated by extending a helping hand to the residents of Maui. Staff members from Programs, Operations, Finance, and Development, were offered to the Hawaii Food Bank. The Financial Impact of the Redwood Empire Food Bank: Maximizing Every Dollar to Help End HungerPage 6As we embark on the journey of 2024, it is crucial to reect on the persistent challenges faced by the Redwood Empire Food Bank throughout 2023 in addressing the escalating hunger crisis within the community. And though the challenges of the past year persist, the organization remains unwavering in its commitment to the community.A Persistent Hunger Crisis in 2023Throughout 2023, the Redwood Empire Food Bank grappled with the intensifying hunger need in the community. The soaring cost of living and food prices left countless families in dire need. The conclusion of pandemic-era benets programs saw more families Redwood Empire Food Bank staff and board of directors sign pallets of Clif Bars with well-wishes before being transported to the Maui community during the wildres.Young participant enjoys a free lunch at one of the Redwood Empire Food Bank’s 14 Summer Lunch sites throughout Sonoma County.Continued on page 7Continued on page 52023 Impact ReportVeteran volunteer assisting at a food distribution site at the VA Clinic in South Santa Rosa.
Editorials2The SecondHelpingSociety:Leavinga Legacyof HungerReliefMany Redwood EmpireFood Bank donors makea long-term commitmentto helping end hunger byadding the food bank intheir estate plans.Redwood Empire Food Bank volunteers prepare for a drive-through food distribution at Shiloh Neighborhood Church in Santa Rosa.In the picturesquelandscapes of SonomaCounty, a persistent issuequietly looms—hunger.While this community isrenowned for its beauty andprosperity, there are thosewho face the harsh reality offood insecurity. If you arepassionate about making adifference and advocatingfor hunger relief in SonomaCounty, here is a guide tohelp you get started:1. Raise AwarenessThe rst step in advocacy isto inform and engage others.Share statistics and storiesabout hunger in SonomaCounty with your family,friends, and colleagues.Social media, communityevents, and local meetingscan be effective platformsfor raising awareness.Follow @RedwoodEmpireFoodBank on your socialchannels to collect and shareinformation and storiesabout hunger. cafoodbanks.org also has a myriad ofresources and data on foodinsecurity in California.2. Connect with LocalOrganizationsSonoma County boasts anetwork of organizationsdedicated to hunger relief.Connect with them tounderstand the specicneeds and challenges in yourcommunity. The RedwoodEmpire Food Bank, forinstance, plays a central rolein addressing hunger in theregion and lists their 150partners in hunger relief atrefb.org/partners.3. Volunteer Your TimeConsider donating yourtime to local food banks andhunger relief organizations.Volunteering not onlyprovides direct assistancebut also gives you a deeperinsight into the issue and theimpact of your efforts.Explore a multitude ofvolunteer opportunities withthe Redwood Empire FoodBank at refb.org/volunteer.4. Advocate for PolicyChangeAdvocacy often involvesinuencing policy decisions.Attend local governmentmeetings, engage withelected ofcials, andsupport legislation aimedat alleviating hunger. Yourvoice can make a signicantimpact on shaping thepolicies that affect yourcommunity.cafoodbanks.org has a HungerLegislation Tracker thatmakes it easy to stay on topof current anti-hunger bills.5. FundraiseOrganize or participate infundraisers for hunger relief.Whether it is a charity run,a food drive, or an onlinecampaign, fundraising canprovide crucial resources tosupport local initiatives.For fundraising ideas, visitrefb.org/food-funds.6. CollaborateHunger relief is a collectiveeffort. Collaborate withlocal businesses, schools,and community groupsto develop strategies andinitiatives that can addressthe issue effectively.7. Stay InformedKeep yourself updated onthe latest developmentsrelated to hunger relief inSonoma County. Knowledgeis a powerful tool inadvocacy, helping you tomake informed decisionsand proposals.8. Be a Voice for Those inNeedPerhaps one of the most vitalaspects of advocacy is beinga voice for those who oftengo unheard. Share the storiesof individuals and familiesstruggling with hunger toinspire change.Sonoma County is a placeof natural beauty, but it isalso a community wherecompassion and dedicationcan make a profound impacton the lives of those facinghunger. Your advocacy canbe the driving force behindensuring that every residentin this remarkable countyhas access to the most basicnecessity: food.Advocating for Hunger Relief in Sonoma County: A Comprehensive GuideThe Redwood EmpireFood Bank extendsits gratitude to thoseconsidering joining theSecond Helping Societyand leaving a legacy thatwill change lives andinspire hope for years tocome.Our community has thepower to create a lastingimpact on the lives ofindividuals and familiesfacing food insecurityright here in SonomaCounty.Appreciation plaqueshonoring legacy gift donorsadorn the volunteer room wallat the food bank.Scan tolearn more:Food line at a Redwood Empire Food Bank distribution site in Bayer Park, Santa Rosa.
with highlights including a revamped Partner Portal addressing partner needs and strategies for strengthening the network. Attendees also gained insights into the W5 Project tool for efcient client participation tracking, and explored retail and grocery recovery initiatives.Artistry & GenerosityAttendees had the opportunity to view and bid on a stunning array of handmade bowls. These remarkable creations were generously crafted and donated by artists from Sonoma County and the Bay Area.A Noble CauseEmpty Bowls plays a pivotal role in supporting programs that address food insecurity in Sonoma County. The funds raised during the event went Navigating food acquisition was a central theme, with sessions on online ordering tools and optimizing procurement. The conference emphasized the crucial role of partners in the mission to end hunger and encouraged active participation to make a difference in their communities in the ongoing ght against hunger.The Redwood Empire Food Bank hosted its annual Partner Conference in September 2023, bringing together partners from various local human service organizations. The conference showcased innovative strategies and tools to empower partners, In its 10th year, Empty Bowls 2023 continued a cherished tradition that combines generosity, creativity, and a commitment to the most fundamental of needs: food.A Storied HistoryEmpty Bowls carries with it a rich history of community support. Year after year, this event has united our community in a shared mission to help End Hunger in Our Community.Annual Partner Conference 2023: Collaborating for a Hunger-Free FutureEmpty Bowls 2023: A Tradition of Unity to Help End HungerI Felt Nourished and BlessedEternally Grateful to the Food BankLetters to the EditorOn Tuesday October 17th, I attended my rst food bank visit. I was so welcomed by everyone there, from check-in with Kathy, to every friendly person helping me through the process—with my cane in hand too! There were so many healthy options, and the food gave me good energy and items beyond my ability to purchase. Every day I felt nourished and blessed. I know it takes many hands to make this food bank work and it takes many hearts of kind, wonderful people to provide this valuable service.Thank you all for everything!Maria L.Last January, my kids and I returned to our vacant home in Sonoma County after spending nearly two years in an extremely toxic environment. I didn’t have a job, our water was shut off, our propane was empty and we had one small space heater.By the grace of God, week after week got better and better. Our neighbor offered to turn our water back on, a friend lled our propane, and side work allowed me to purchase a better heater.We utilized the food bank weekly. We were treated with dignity and kindness every time. There were times that our entire meal was prepared with food from the food bank. We were overcome with gratitude. Since those cold and rainy days in January, things have changed signicantly. I was hired full time with the county parks department, all three of my kids thrived at school, my eldest child was hired for a summer job and has begun saving for a car. We are heavily involved in our church and community and are grateful to be home. We are eternally grateful to the food bank. I shudder to think of how we would have survived the long winter. Thank you. Prior to returning, we owned a hugely successful business. When a wildre destroyed it, we sunk our personal money into rebuilding, but it was determined to be fruitless. We returned to Sonoma County tired, broken, and poor. The kindness and dignity you showed us will be with us forever. I look forward to getting to a place where I can pay forward and donate my time and energy to helping distribute food. Thank you. Love, The Furlongsdirectly to our community in need.A Culinary FeastEmpty Bowls is also about savoring delicious food and wine. A family-style dinner, prepared by Park Avenue Catering and acclaimed chef Ari Weiswasser, featured a delectable menu complemented with generously donated local wines and cheese.Making a DifferenceEmpty Bowls is more than just an event; it is a powerful symbol of our community’s commitment to helping those faced with hunger. Donors raise their paddles at the 10th annual Redwood Empire Food Bank Empty Bowls gala. News & Events3Redwood Empire Food Bank food partners tour the food bank’s warehouse during the 2023 Annual Partner Conference.2023Impact Report
• Warehouse: Help with sorting, organizing, and packing food.• Kitchen: Contribute to meal preparation and cooking.• Food Connections Market: Be a part of the partner shopping experience.• Driver: Join the team delivering food to different locations.• Special Events: Participate in community events and fundraisers.Visit refb.org or call 707-523-7900 to learn more about how you can become a vital part of the Redwood Empire Food Bank family. Your time will make a world of difference, helping to build a stronger, more resilient community for all.workplace, school, or community center.By participating in or hosting food drives throughout the year, we collectively contribute to ensuring that our neighbors have access to nutritious meals, regardless of the season. It is a way for our community to stand together and ensure that none of our neighbors in need go to bed hungry.In the realm of community support, 2023 witnessed a stand-out event that left a notable mark on the mission to End Hunger in Our Community. Food From The Bar showcased the impact that collective action can have. The results were notable. Our local legal community raised over $200,000, collected more than 1,700 pounds of food, and dedicated 286 hours through volunteerism. This highlights not only their legal prowess but also their commitment to helping create a hunger-free community.Food From The Bar is a friendly legal challenge organized by the Sonoma County Bar Association and the Redwood Empire Food Bank. This month-long competition between law rms, law schools, and legal services organizations, brings together the legal community with a shared goal: to make a difference in the ght against hunger. Raising the Bar to Help End Hunger in Our Community Food Drives: A Year-Round Supplement for Our CommunitySonoma County family volunteers at the Redwood Empire Food Bank warehouse, packing produce for food distribution sites.Redwood Empire Food Bank’s Kitchen Collective volunteers take a short break to smile for a group photo at the Windsor Chili Cook-off where the food bank was the main beneciary of the event.Making a Dierence: The Power of Volunteering at the Redwood Empire Food BankIn the heart of our community, an army of everyday heroes come together to make a remarkable impact. The Redwood Empire Food Bank, a lifeline for those facing hunger, depends on the dedication of volunteers who generously donate their time to make a difference. Today, we invite you to be a part of this powerful force for good.The Volunteer ForceDid you know that in 2023, a whopping 11,264 volunteers dedicated their time to the Redwood Empire Food Bank? This incredible number speaks volumes about the community’s commitment to making a positive change.Food drives play a pivotal role in supporting those facing food insecurity in our community. While such initiatives can have a profound impact on specic occasions, their signicance stretches well beyond single events.Year-Round Impact: Food drives are not limited to special events. They are a crucial year-round effort that helps keep the shelves of local food banks Volunteers are the backbone of the food bank, driving its mission to End Hunger in Our Community. Join the MovementVolunteering at the Redwood Empire Food Bank is not just about giving back—it is about making a real, tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors. It is an opportunity to connect with your community and be part of something greater than yourself.Opportunities for YouWith six distinct volunteer opportunities, there is a role for everyone:• Distribution Site: Assist in distributing food to people coming for groceries.stocked. These drives provide a continuous supply of non-perishable items that support families and individuals facing food insecurity.Moreover, they offer a chance for community members to get involved and make a positive difference. You do not have to wait for a special event to organize a food drive. Anyone can host one, whether at their 4Redwood Empire Food Bank volunteer distributes food to individuals in need at the Vintage at Bennett Valley distribution site in Santa Rosa.Community
With a mission to end hunger and create a resilient community, the Redwood Empire Food Bank offered 3,600 opportunities to access food throughout the year, translating into 300 direct service distributions each month.To achieve their ambitious goals, the food bank runs multiple programs under three strategic initiatives:Every Child, Every Day: Fueling Growing MindsThe “Every Child, Every Day” initiative supports at-risk children. In 2023, this program served a staggering 41,100 children, offering a lifeline in the ght against childhood hunger. With four distinct programs tailored to addressing seasonal meal gaps, the initiative ensures that local families have access to fresh produce, nourishing groceries, and healthy meals.These resources not only help children grow up healthy and strong but also enable them to stay engaged in their school activities. Senior Security: Caring for Our EldersFor many elderly members in our community, rising healthcare and housing costs make it increasingly challenging to make ends meet. The “Senior Security” initiative aims to provide nutritional stability for our senior neighbors with a consistent source of healthy, fresh food.In 2023, this program extended its support to 14,700 seniors.Neighborhood Hunger Network: A Robust Safety NetThe “Neighborhood Hunger Network” is the backbone of the food bank’s vast emergency food system. Through wide-reaching hunger relief programs and partnerships, they are able to remove many of the bariers our neighbors face in seeking help, weaving a strong nutritional safety net that is large enough to support our entire community. In 2023, the three initiatives reached 142,000 individuals with the average person seeking assistance 2.5 times per month. The total value of food distributed reached a staggering $61,300,000, equivalent to 24,100,000 meals.Your commitment to these strategic initiatives is making a profound impact, proving that together, we can help End Hunger in Our Community.Redwood Empire Food Bank participant picks up groceries at the Meadow View Elementary School food distribution site in Santa Rosa.Continued from front cover:Redwood Empire Food Bank Stands by Maui Residents Amid WildfiresFostering Well-Being: A Closer Look at the Redwood Empire Food Bank’s Three Strategic InitiativesCommunity5The Hawaiian team selected two warehouse staff and one driver from the Redwood Empire Food Bank.David Goodman, Hunger Relief Worker & CEO, aptly described the solidarity within the food banking community, saying: “One of the unique things about being a food banker is that we don’t compete with one another. There are few industries where that is the norm. And it is very cool!”This spirit of unity exemplies the power of collective support in times of need.Redwood Empire Food Bank staff ready to go to work at the Hawaii Food Bank.Staff well-wishes adorn the pallets of Clif Bars being sent to the Maui community.Senior participants receive fresh produce at the Santa Rosa Community Health, Dutton Campus distribution site.2023Impact Report
Finance6Nourishing Our Community: The Redwood Empire Food Bank’s Vital Role in Fulfilling Their Mission to End HungerIn the world of nance, making every dollar count is a true art. The Redwood Empire Food Bank has mastered this art, turning each dollar received into a powerful force in the effort to End Hunger in Our Community.A Solid Financial FoundationIn 2023, the food bank’s nancial report reveals a well-balanced equation:The Financial Impact of the Redwood Empire Food Bank: Maximizing Every Dollar to Help End HungerIn the heart of our community, the Redwood Empire Food Bank serves as a lifeline, dedicated to fullling their mission of Ending Hunger in Our Community. Their goal is to create a sustainable environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, thanks to the provision of vital groceries.A Nutritional Safety NetAt the core of their efforts is the distribution of nutritious food that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy protein, dairy, and essential staple items. These provisions form a nutritional safety net for those at risk of hunger.Diverse OfferingsThe food bank’s offerings are as diverse as the community they serve. The chart below shows the offering breakdown provided by the Redwood Empire Food Bank:Sourcing for ImpactThe food bank’s resources come from multiple different avenues, all of which play a vital role in providing a well-rounded provision of help:“We want to create a sustainable environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.”Efcient Resource AllocationThe food bank’s dedication to making the most of their resources is evident in their expense breakdown. An astounding 95% of their resources are channelled directly into hunger-relief programs, ensuring that the community’s needs are met efciently and effectively. Only 5% is allocated to general operating expenses.Triple the ImpactOne of the most remarkable aspects of the food bank’s nancial prowess is their ability to stretch every dollar. For every dollar received, they can provide $3 worth of food. This means that individual donations, grants, corporate contributions, and government contracts, when combined, can have a threefold impact in the ght against hunger.As the Redwood Empire Food Bank continues to balance the nancial scales with remarkable skill, they prove that every dollar, every donation, and every contribution plays a vital role in building a resilient, hunger-free community. It is a nancial impact that sets an example for us all: making the most of our resources to make the world a better place.RevenueIndividual donations .....................................$9,944,000Grants and foundation support..........................................................$1,039,000Corporate contributions ...............................$1,821,000Government contracts ..................................$5,951,000 Other revenue ...............................................$2,711,000Total Revenue ...........................................$21,466,000The Power of ProvisionIn 2023, the Redwood Empire Food Bank provided an incredible $61.3 million worth of healthy groceries. This goes far beyond just providing food; it is about building a foundation for healthier, happier lives within our community. DONATEDFOOD20%PURCHASEDSTAPLES12%PURCHASEDPRODUCE43%GOVERNMENT(USDA) FOOD25%PROTEIN10%DAIRY10%OTHER37%PRODUCE43%Redwood Empire Food Bank provision of help for recipients the week of December 18, 2023: Carrots, potatoes, onions, canned tomatoes, oranges, pears, blueberries, eggs, chicken, milk, cheese, bread, rice, beans, nuts, and crackers. Finance News
Business7The mission of the Redwood Empire Food Bank centers around its participants, whose voices, experiences, and preferences shape the assistance provided. To navigate the path to Ending Hunger in Our Community, understanding the demographics of those seeking food support is paramount.Enter the W5 Project, a tool focusing on the who, what, where, when, and why of the people served. Implementing this data collection tool provides the food bank with an opportunity to gain valuable insights, ultimately enhancing the services offered.This deeper comprehension of the individuals they serve allows the food bank to tailor support, fostering more dignied and personalized interactions. The visual snapshot below encapsulates our community in need.The Redwood Empire Food Bank places immense value on the trust and feedback of its participants, considering them integral partners in their mission. By cultivating a collaborative relationship, the organization gains valuable insights into the evolving needs and preferences of the community. Through sustained engagement, the food bank strives to forge a stronger, more resilient community, guided by the vision of ending hunger.$300,000 worth of food distributed.Who the Food Bank Served in 2023Throughout the year, the Redwood Empire Food Bank extended support to individuals facing diverse challenges. It is essential to acknowledge that the beneciaries, much like you and me, came from various backgrounds, with the majority not being without shelter. They represent a wide spectrum of people grappling with the trials of everyday life.A Look Ahead with GratitudeThe food bank extends a heartfelt thanks for the community’s support, where collective efforts ensure no one goes without a basic necessity like food.healthy food to the community. A Constant Concern: Sourcing Food & FundsIn 2023, the organization’s primary concern was sourcing enough food and funds to meet the growing demand. Despite the challenges, community support remained a driving force of hope.Stretching Every DollarFor every dollar received, the food bank could distribute three dollars’ worth of food, thanks to its commitment to thriftiness and resourcefulness. A great example of this are the donated wine boxes from local wineries that save the organization over $100,000 annually, equivalent to an extra Continued from front cover:Navigating the Hunger Crisis: Reflecting on the Redwood Empire Food Bank’s 2023 InitiativesRedwood Empire Food Bank Participants: A Diverse and Resilient Community2023Impact Report
3990 BRICKWAY BLVD., SANTA ROSA, CA 95403 | 707-523-7900 | REFB.ORGIn the bustling world of hunger relief, the Redwood Empire Food Bank is always whipping up something exciting to serve our community’s unique needs. So, what is cooking in the kitchen? Well, it is the food bank’s delightful and nutritious “On the Spot Nutrition” program!A Dash of CompassionBy the time people turn to the Redwood Empire Food Bank for help, they have often been enduring persistent hunger for an extended period. To address their acute food needs, the food bank cranked up the heat and launched the On the Spot Nutrition program.Fresh Ingredients, Quick ReliefVolunteers, armed with fresh donated ingredients, work together to create a range of healthy snacks. These snacks What’s Cooking in the Kitchen? Redwood Empire Food Bank’s On the Spot Nutrition!Redwood Empire Food Bank chef prepares a healthy snack with the help of volunteers in the food bank’s community kitchen. Redwood Empire Food Bank employee serves a fresh On the Spot snack to participants waiting in line for groceries. These snacks are prepared daily by volunteers in the kitchen of the Redwood Empire Food Bank.Ingredients• 5 medium green tomatoes, chopped• 2 tbsp cider vinegar• 1 ½ cups white sugar• ¼ cup cornstarch • 1 tsp ground cinnamon• ½ tsp ground nutmeg• ½ tsp salt• ¼ tsp ground cloves• 1 (14 ounce) package double-crust pie pastry, thawedDirections1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. 2. Combine tomatoes and Green Tomato PieRedwood Empire Food Bank Participants: A Diverse and Resilient CommunityBusinessPage 7Raising the Bar to Help End Hunger in Our CommunityCommunityPage 4Food82023 Impact Reportare designed to offer an immediate boost of nutrition, providing swift relief to the food bank’s hungry participants. Feeding the LineThe magic happens when these nutritious snacks are served on the spot at food distributions. It is an instant pick-me-up for those in need, providing not only sustenance but also a taste of care and compassion.Below are some scrumptious recipes from the Redwood Empire Food Bank’s On the Spot Nutrition program. A member ofIngredients• 1 cup rolled oats• 2 tsp Chia seeds • 2 tsp cinnamon• 1 tsp nutmeg• ½ cup grated carrots• 2 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar • 2 ½ cups almond or coconut milk• 2 tbsp raisins optional• 2 tbsp toasted aked or sliced unsweetened coconut• 2 tbsp toasted crushed or sliced nuts of your choice Directions1. Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl and split into two mason jars (or mix directly in the jars).2. Cover with a lid and set in refrigerator overnight.3. Enjoy in the morning!Notes• Adjust almond or coconut milk to taste (2 to 2.5 cups).• Overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months! Yield: 2 ServingsCarrot Cake Overnight Oatsvinegar in a large bowl.3. Mix sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cloves together in a medium bowl. Sprinkle over tomatoes and toss to coat evenly.4. Press one pie pastry into a 9-inch pie pan. Pour tomato mixture into the pastry. Cut second pie pastry into strips and arrange in a crisscross lattice over the lling.5. Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and crust is brown, 30 to 35 minutes.