RANCHO CORDOVA FOOD LOCKER

For most of its 25-year history, the Rancho Cordova Food Locker was run by a passionate group of volunteers. Since 2019, the Food Locker has seen a significant increase in the number of households facing food insecurity. In 2020, the Food Locker took an important next step, becoming an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Supported by the Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services partner agency network program, the Food Locker benefits from collaborating with a group of like organizations throughout the Sacramento Region, which are providing food-related support to those in need.

In 2021, after one year as a freestanding non-profit, the City of Rancho Cordova conducted a 90-day project to support RCFL to better understand its growth and capacity needs and to help identify future impact priority areas for our then-fledging organization. The project findings made several recommendations. Hire an Executive Director, develop a strategic facility action plan, implement Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services “Oasis” data collection system, concentrate on more nutritionally based foods, and the diversification of the Board of Directors.

In 2022, the RCFL board hired Carrie Johnson to serve as its first Executive Director. With an extensive background in non-profit and community-focused engagement, Johnson is leading the RCFL into a new era of leadership and service to the East Sacramento County region. “Bringing Carrie on as our Executive Director provides an opportunity for us to increase the quality of our services and, ultimately, expand access to fresh and healthy food choices for families fighting hunger in our neighborhoods,” said Shelly Blanchard president of the Rancho Cordova Food Locker board of directors.

Food distribution and food recovery are the primary programs of the Rancho Cordova Food Locker. In 2023, RCFL has nine grocery store partners and is on track to recover 2.5 million pounds of good food for our neighbors and friends.

The Rancho Cordova Food Locker is a vital community resource dedicated to addressing food insecurity in the Rancho Cordova area of California. Founded with the mission of ensuring that no individual or family goes hungry, the Food Locker operates as a nonprofit organization supported by volunteers and community donations. Their primary goal is to provide nutritious food options to those in need, fostering a sense of dignity and support for individuals facing financial hardship.

Today, Rancho Cordova Food Locker serves a diverse range of individuals and families, including low-income households, unemployed individuals, seniors on fixed incomes, and families experiencing temporary setbacks. We serve more than 2,000 friends and neighbors each week. An estimated 20 percent of households served are Ukrainian, Afghani, or Russian immigrants.

By offering a variety of perishable and non-perishable food items, the Rancho Cordova Food Locker helps alleviate the burden of hunger and food insecurity for those facing economic challenges. Additionally, they often collaborate with local businesses, food banks, and community organizations to expand their reach and enhance their ability to meet the needs of the community. Through their tireless efforts and dedication, the Rancho Cordova Food Locker plays a crucial role in building a stronger,