Access to reliable food sources is essential for the health and well-being of individuals and families. With the rising cost of groceries and everyday necessities, many households are looking for assistance. Food resources like local food banks, school meal programs, local pantries, and community-based support centers play an important role in reducing food insecurity and supporting families in times of need.
Why Food Resources Matter
Food assistance programs and community food resources play an important role in supporting children’s health, academic success, and family stability. Access to nutritious meals can improve physical and mental well-being, reduce stress for caregivers, and help families focus on other essential needs such as housing, education, and child care.
Across Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties, many families face challenges related to rising food costs, unexpected financial hardships, and limited access to nutritious meals. Fortunately, there are a variety of local food resources and assistance programs available to help residents get the support they need.
Food Resources in Los Angeles County
Families in Los Angeles County have access to a wide network of food assistance programs and organizations. Residents can apply for benefits online through BenefitsCal or LA County DPSS. Additional food resources in Los Angeles County include:
- Los Angeles Regional Food Bank – The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is one of the largest hunger-relief organizations in Southern California. It serves hundreds of community food pantry partners across LA County.
- 211 LA – A nonprofit that connects LA residents to health, human, and social services through a multilingual 24-hour phone line and digital platforms.
- California Summer Meal Site Finder – Provides a list of locations where children may receive free nutritious meals during school vacation and off-track periods.
Food Resources in San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County families can also access a variety of food support services and CalFresh assistance programs. Applications and benefit management are available through San Bernardino County Transitional Assistance Department or BenefitsCal. Additional San Bernardino County food resources include:
- Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County – A private nonprofit agency that provides food distributions, emergency assistance, and family support services throughout the county.
- Find Help – An online resource where families can also locate nearby food pantries and distributions.
How SUN Bucks and CalFresh Help Families Put Food on the Table
For families facing daunting grocery costs, programs like SUN Bucks and CalFresh can provide additional food support and help make meals more accessible for households throughout California.
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and Governor Gavin Newsom have officially announced the return of the SUN Bucks food program for Summer 2026. SUN Bucks helps families purchase groceries during the summer months when children may have limited access to free school meals. For additional information on SUN Bucks and to see if you are eligible, visit the following links to learn more:
Another valuable resource is the CalFresh program – California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). CalFresh provides monthly food benefits that can be used at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other participating local food retailers as well. For more information on CalFresh, please click here.
Access to Food, Access to Opportunity
If you are in Los Angeles or San Bernardino County and looking for food assistance, be sure to take advantage of the resources and services mentioned above. Many of these programs offer online applications, multilingual services, and assistance with eligibility questions to make support even more accessible.
No family should have to navigate food insecurity alone. Access to food is foundational to healthy children and thriving communities – and California’s growing network of support programs continues to make a meaningful difference statewide.