California Hunger Overview

More Than 2.9 Million Californians Now Food Insecure — 1 in 3 are Low-Income, An Increase in Just 2 Years

The 2003 California Health Interview Survey found that more than 2.9 million low-income adults in California lack sufficient resources to adequately put food on the table on a stable basis—1 in 12. These food insecure adults suffer from episodes of hunger, or live precariously at risk for hunger from month to month. For a 12-page policy brief on this UCLA study on food insecurity and hunger in California, click here.

Two of your child’s classmates face hunger daily.

What do these numbers mean? On average, two children in your child’s public school classroom live with the daily reality of hunger. They may only be learning colors and shapes today, but they are already at risk for low academic achievement, a lack of employment opportunities, and continuing the cycle of poverty tomorrow.

Second Harvest Works for Systemic Change

Integral to Second Harvest’s mission is civic engagement. Our dedicated Education and Outreach department works not only to provide food, but influence congressional decisions that affect food accessibility for low-income families. Visit our Advocacy page to see how you can lend your voice to support a well-nourished community.