Catholic Charities Responds to Growing Food Crisis with $20,000 in Immediate Aid

“We are seeing a marked increase in food insecurity in Alameda and Contra Costa counties,” reports Dr. Lisa Carlisle, Chief Program Officer. “It began in October, with anxiety about the continuation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding. Today, we are getting more calls from families whose children are at risk of going to bed without dinner or seniors who are stretching their limited budgets to have a daily meal.”

As we have done for 90 years, Catholic Charities developed a workable response to this crisis. We are dedicating an initial investment of $20,000 to help families experiencing food insecurity. Assistance is provided through grocery store debit cards from commonly used, more affordable stores that are found throughout our neighborhoods. The cards are valid for food and necessary hygiene supplies, including paper towels and dishwashing liquid.

Dr. Lisa Carlisle, Chief Program Officer

“We’re also reaching out to families who we have recently helped through any of our three programs (Housing, Immigration, and Mental Health) to check in on their needs, and we’re responding to neighbors calling for help for the first time,” says Lisa. “Help is provided after a brief intake assessment to determine the full scope of the crisis and whether we can offer other services.”

About 300,000 of our neighbors in Alameda and Contra Costa counties receive SNAP benefits, over half of whom are children or seniors. In California, the federal SNAP program is called CalFresh. A family of four is eligible for benefits if their monthly income is $2,679 or less. The average monthly benefit for a family of four is $678.

It is in a crisis like this that the generous support of our dedicated donors is vital. YOU, our donors, are making it possible for us to help feed our neighbors.

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This milestone event will take place Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the beautiful Event Center at Christ the Light Cathedral in Oakland — with free valet parking or self-parking indoors for your convenience.

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