#MemberMonday: Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino (FARSB)

Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino (FARSB) is embarking on an incredible journey to further connect and uplift local families through their latest initiative, made possible by their brand-new facility.

FARSB began operating in April 1980 under the name Survive Food Bank, initially distributing 10,000 pounds of food monthly. Fast forward to today, and FARSB is a powerhouse, distributing more than  2.5 million pounds of food monthly across its counties. Their support spans far and wide, reaching families, Veterans, older adults, and children in need of grocery support.

New Developments: Resource Center Acquisition

FARSB recently secured a new building for its administrative headquarters, thanks to funding earmarked for boosting its capacity. This strategic move not only allowed them to establish a choice pantry onsite but gave them the space to expand their team, host events, and offer educational classes in their new state-of-the-art learning center.

Even though FARSB has just settled into their new facility, they’re wasting no time putting their space to good use. The learning center has recently hosted its seasonal The Goodness in Food (TGIF) child education program, bringing valuable knowledge and resources to the community’s youngest members.

But that’s just the beginning. FARSB is gearing up for even more exciting collaborations in the months ahead. They’re teaming up with the local Chamber of Commerce to leverage their space as a hub for connecting with local businesses. As they countdown to their grand opening, FARSB is laying the groundwork for a dynamic and inclusive space that will serve as a cornerstone of community engagement and support.

In addition to their new building, FARSB’s warehouse will continue to operate at its original location, housing a portion of their team responsible for managing deliveries, donations, partner agency pickups, and volunteer opportunities.

Nourishing Neighbors through Choice Pantry 

In the tapestry of services offered at FARSB’s new space, one standout feature is their choice pantry—a beacon of empowerment and dignity in the fight against food insecurity. Unlike traditional food distribution models, where items are handed out, the choice pantry concept puts the power back in the hands of the clients.

At FARSB’s choice pantry, it’s not just about handing out food—it’s about empowering individuals to control their personal health and wellbeing. Here, clients are not given a one-size-fits-all package; instead, they’ll be free to select items that suit their dietary preferences and personal needs.

But the impact doesn’t stop there. FARSB has big plans for their choice pantry. They aim to use it as a model for their partner agencies, showcasing best practices and inspiring change across the Inland Empire. In a region where choice pantries are few and far between, FARSB shows that a more personalized approach to food assistance is not only possible but essential.

Leveraging consultants’ expertise, nurturing connections with board members, tapping into the vast resources of Feeding America and the California Association of Food Banks, and collaborating closely with local funders, FARSB is crafting a meticulously planned and remarkable community resource. FARSB is laying the groundwork for a space that will uplift and empower the entire community for years.

“As we enter this exciting new chapter in our food bank’s journey, being a member of the California Association of Food Banks is invaluable. We’re fortunate to be part of a network where other Southern California Food Banks are not just operating pantries but excelling at it! The connections and support we receive are truly unmatched,”

Carolyn Solar, CEO at FARSB

A Brighter Future Tomorrow

With enhanced facilities and resources, FARSB aims to increase its impact by efficiently addressing the needs of neighbors facing food insecurity. This new chapter greatly signifies FARSB’s commitment to fostering a stronger, more resilient community where everyone can access essential resources and support.

For more information on how to get involved with FARSB, visit https://www.feedingIE.org/getinvolved.

This blog post was written by Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino (FARSB). They invite others to join them on their mission to alleviate hunger in the Inland Empire. Whether through donations, volunteerism, raising awareness, or advocating for public policy changes, support is instrumental in turning numbers into nourishment, statistics into stories, and meals into meaningful change. Learn more at FeedingIE.org. You can also find them on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.