Created by the community for the community, River City Food Bank (RCFB) began in 1968 as River City Community Services. The philosophy then, as now, was simple: No one should be hungry.

In its 40+ years of operation, RCFB has maintained its focus on emergency food and shelter services. When someone hits a rough patch, they can come to RCFB for a little help. Clients represent every age and income group, and live in urban and suburban neighborhoods throughout Sacramento. Many are “working poor” and find themselves uncertain about where their next meals will come from after facing a set-back such as an unexpected car repair or medical problem. RCFB’s assistance, given with compassion, helps to instill hope and support self-reliance. Volunteers continue to be at the heart of what RCFB does, providing over 11,000 hours of labor and love each year. The part-time staff–the executive director and program director–ensure the integrity and strength of operations, along with the diligent support of the Board of Directors.

RCFB works closely with organizations that have special expertise in common needs of the clients. Francis House counselors screen and refer clients for our motel voucher program. RCFB also provides monthly “Food for Fun” nutritional classes using common food closet staples in cooperation with a nutritionist from CARES, Sacramento area’s leading provider of HIV/AIDS services.

River City is also a partner agency of Foodlink, the Food Bank of Northern California. The USDA Commodities Program, a federal program administered by Foodlink, provides choice USDA foods–such as fruits and vegetables, nuts, cheese, and grain products–to clients in specific zip codes. RCFB distributes food to low-income people in two downtown zip codes.

Finally, RCFB has strong relationships with referral services such as InfoLine, operated by Sacramento County’s Community Services Planning Council. RCFB is among the top three programs suggested to callers.