Food Distribution In San Pablo, Richmond Continues: Coronavirus

EAST BAY — The East Bay-based nonprofit White Pony Express will continue delivering food to local families despite the closure of food pantries at local schools due to the novel coronavirus.

The White Pony Express regularly delivers fresh, surplus food to 11 schools across Contra Costa County that offer free lunches to students who may not otherwise have adequate food. More than 100,000 students across the county qualify for the program.

In lieu of schools, the organization will deliver food to nearby community centers and churches to ensure families will still have access to food and won't go hungry.

"The families we serve through this program have demanding challenges throughout the month," WPE Food Rescue Operations Manager Helen Jones said. "Many of the participants receive food stamps which only cover a portion of a month's worth of food."

WPE is updating its health guidelines for all aspects of its food and clothing services, including implementing social distancing, the use of hand sanitizer and gloves and increased hand washing frequency.

"It is important for the public and our volunteers to know that WPE will be implementing strict cleanliness standards so that our valuable programs can continue safely," WPE Executive Director Mary Brooks said. "And the families at the schools we are serving should know that WPE is preparing and delivering this surplus food in accordance with these high standards."

The WPE currently has food pantries at schools in Antioch, Bay Point, Martinez, Pittsburg, Richmond and San Pablo. The organization plans to supply more than 415,000 meals throughout the year.

Next year, WPE plans to expand its food pantry program.

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