A food distribution event at Contra Costa College in San Pablo drew a large crowd on Monday, with lines stretching down the sidewalk. Program coordinator Geo Dinoso estimated that at least 500 families would attend the event. "I think it just speaks about the current state of people being able to manage and to meet their needs," Dinoso said. He noted that many families are struggling to make ends meet, especially after losing support from CalFresh, a program that provided financial assistance for groceries.

The recent shutdown of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has left thousands without food assistance, leading to increased demand at local food banks. J.P. Contreras, who works at the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, reported a surge in inquiries from individuals seeking food resources. "There's a lot of fear, especially among our most vulnerable populations," he said, referring to seniors and people with disabilities. Contreras also mentioned that many new clients are seeking help for the first time.

With the federal government indicating that SNAP benefits may be partially reinstated at an unspecified time, food banks are preparing to fill the gap. Contreras explained that for every one client served by food banks, approximately nine were previously receiving SNAP assistance. "There has been confusion ever since the government shutdown started," said food bank CEO Caitlin Sly. She highlighted the anxiety and panic affecting those facing hunger in the community, noting that benefits are currently paused with no clear timeline for reinstatement.

Sly added, "Right now, we're hearing 'partial benefits' will happen at some point. But we know it will take at least a few weeks for even partial benefits to be loaded on the cards."

Richmond resident Zachary Harris visited the food bank headquarters to make a donation. "What we're going through is a little bit crazy," he said. "And, yeah, if we can help out, go ahead and do it. Hopefully, this will make things a little more normal."

Dinoso expressed gratitude for the community's willingness to volunteer during this crisis. "It just brightens my heart," he said. "Whenever there's a crisis or hard time in the community, people just come together. We always look for the helpers, and they're right here."

In Contra Costa County, there are 107,000 individuals registered for SNAP. Food banks are urging the public for financial support to meet the unprecedented demand for food assistance.