some federal programs that support food banks have temporarily been put on hold, including shipments we rely on here at Merced County Food Bank.​

We’re working closely with our partners at the California Association of Food Banks (CAFB) and the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) to stay informed and respond with care and caution.

Right now, 22 of our USDA food distribution sites are not yet directly impacted by these holds — these sites serve some of the most food-insecure communities in Merced and Mariposa Counties.

However, if the hold becomes long-term, we will work closely with our partners to address the issue.​

But it goes even further. We work with over 100 partner agencies — food pantries, churches, shelters, and community groups — and they’re all feeling the pressure of rising food costs and tightening resources.​

We’re doing everything we can to keep food flowing to those who need it most — but we can’t do it alone.

We deeply appreciate your support and advocacy, as it helps us stay ready, stay stocked, and stay strong.

We’ll continue to keep you updated as the situation evolves. Thank you!

For more detailed information, you can read the recent articles from:

The New York Times: Food Banks Left in the Lurch as Some Shipments Are Suspended

and

Politico: USDA halts millions of dollars worth of deliveries to food banks