Emeryville SNAP Relief Food Drive

Emeryville Logo.round (600ppi) (1).png

In this time of uncertainty related to ongoing federal immigration operations, the federal government shutdown, and the pending temporary discontinuation of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beginning November 1, 2025, we want to provide information and resources to help those impacted in the city.

We understand that these events create challenges for many households, and we are committed to ensuring residents have access to accurate information, local resources and community support.

Food and Community Assistance

Community members on SNAP have not received their November 1, 2025 distributions because of the federal government shutdown. Residents needing food assistance can contact the Alameda County Community Food Bank (510) 635-3663 for free groceries. Neighborhood distribution sites, and CalFresh application help or Emeryville Citizens Assistance Program (ECAP) at their temporary site of 2628 San Pablo Ave. Food distribution Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM or Mercy Brown Bag Program which provides free groceries for older adults, distributions every 1st and 3rd Thursday at Emeryville Senior Center, 4321 Salem Street.

Community Solidarity

Thousands of federal workers and local residents are affected by the shutdown and the SNAP disruption. We encourage everyone who can to donate to local food banks and support neighborhood organizations serving our most vulnerable neighbors.

The City of Emeryville will continue to share information and resources as they become available.

Emeryville SNAP Relief Food Drive Information

Wednesday, November 5 – Friday, November 14
201 students in the Emeryville Unified School District are currently not receiving their SNAP benefits. This food drive will support these students and their families until their benefits are reinstated.

Non-Perishable Food Donations
Canned Goods: Chicken, tuna, luncheon meat, tomatoes, vegetables, legumes, and similar items.
Shelf-Stable Items: Milk, rice, canola or olive oil, dry beans, oats, cereal, pasta, pasta sauce, stock or broth, bouillon, peanut butter, and other pantry staples.

Monetary Donations
Donations can be made online at Emeryville Citizens Assistance Program
When donating, please write "EUSD" in the “write note (optional)” section to ensure funds are properly directed.

Volunteer Opportunities
To volunteer, contact Nicholas Sayarad at nicholas.sayarad@emeryville.org or call 510-450-7800

 

How You Can Help

Examples of Non-Perishables and Perishable Items

Non-Perishable Items (can be stored long-term without refrigeration)

  • Grains & Cereals: Rice, pasta, oats, quinoa, cereal

  • Canned Goods: Beans, vegetables, fruits, soups, tuna, chicken

  • Dry Goods: Lentils, chickpeas, beans, flour, sugar

  • Baking & Cooking Ingredients: Salt, spices, baking powder, oil, vinegar, honey

  • Snacks & Convenience Foods: Crackers, chips, nuts, dried fruits

  • Beverages: Coffee, tea, powdered milk, juice boxes

  • Condiments: Soy sauce, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise (shelf-stable)

  • Other: Peanut butter, chocolate, shelf-stable cheese, pasta sauce

Alameda County Social Services Agency: Assistance and Food Distribution Resources

To help reduce the impact of delayed benefits, the Alameda County Social Services Agency (ACSSA) has implemented several coordinated actions in partnership with the Alameda County Community Food Bank (ACCFB) and other community organizations.
Food Distribution Support

Temporary, free food distribution pop-up sites have been established at select SSA offices. These sites operate twice weekly while the shutdown remains in effect.

  • ACSSA staff are assisting onsite with food distribution and client support.

  • ACCFB coordinates food delivery, setup, takedown, and logistics.

Food Distribution Locations
  • Thomas L. Berkley (North Oakland): 2000 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland

  • Eastmont Center: 6955 Foothill Boulevard, Suite 100, Oakland

  • Enterprise Center: 8477 Enterprise Way, Oakland

  • Gail Steele Center: 24100 Amador Street, Hayward

Additional Food Assistance Resources

Residents in Fremont and Livermore, as well as individuals contacting the SSA Call Center, can be referred directly to the following resources:

  • ACCFB Food Helpline: (510) 635-3663 (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–4 PM, multilingual support available)

  • Online Resources: www.FoodNow.net and www.ComidaAhora.net

  • ACCFB Home Delivery Program: Available for individuals unable to visit distribution sites. SSA staff have referral forms for this service.