The food bank’s network includes more than 50 partner agencies and thousands of volunteers who help deliver food across Sutter and Yuba counties. Designed by Freepik, www.freepik.com

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - Rising food insecurity across Yuba and Sutter counties has driven demand for food assistance to record levels. 

Executive Director Maria Ball outlined the surge during a Dec. 9 presentation to the Sutter County Board of Supervisors.

Ball reported that instances of individuals receiving food assistance, known as “touches,” have risen dramatically. Between 2022 and 2023, touches increased from 152,000 to 272,000, a 79 percent jump. From 2023 to 2024, there was a 55 percent increase, and projections for 2025 indicate a further 11 percent rise, with 35,000 to 40,000 individuals served each month.

Ball said the food bank mobilized quickly in November after delays in SNAP benefits, organizing an emergency food distribution at the former Kmart parking lot. In two hours, the event served more than 2,350 people, representing 650 families. 

“People were lining up at 4:30 in the morning for food,” Ball said. 

Community partners stepped up as well, with local supporters Tracy Ramos and Alexandra Rainey cooking breakfast for those waiting in line. 

“Everyone rallied together and we made it through,” Ball said. “It was a success.”

The food bank’s network includes more than 50 partner agencies and thousands of volunteers who help deliver food across Sutter and Yuba counties. Ball credited the community for helping the organization navigate challenges such as the government shutdown.

In addition to serving families, the food bank is launching an “airmen’s market” at Beale Air Force Base to assist young airmen facing financial hardship. Supported by donations including $15,000 from the City of Yuba City, the market will offer food and essential items in a welcoming environment managed by military leadership. 

“When the current leadership flies away and new comes in, we want to have established relationships with community members and organizations so we can serve our men and women that keep us safe every day,” Ball said. The food bank also recently donated 300 turkeys to the base for holiday support.

Food recovery is another critical focus for the organization. So far in 2025, the food bank has rescued 1.6 million pounds of throwaway food, on track to exceed last year’s 1.7 million pounds. “We are retrieving that from our local retailers.” Ball said. “It’s beautiful, beautiful, viable food. It helps feed our community and it keeps it out of the landfills.”

Board members praised the food bank’s efforts and acknowledged the ongoing economic strain on local families. Supervisor Mike Ziegenmeyer said the organization keeps finding ways to improve year after year, even as the need rises. 

“It is very tough and sad to see all those individuals lined up,” Ziegenmeyer said.

Supervisor Jeff Stephens expressed the board’s commitment to backing the food bank, noting that county leaders will continue to support its work as demand grows and its reach expands.