Kaiser Permanente supports organizations addressing hunger as Bay Area residents navigate higher food costs

Kaiser Permanente is supporting Bay Area organizations that hold food distribution events, deliver nutritious meals, provide emergency food assistance, and support people in the community struggling with food security.

This year, Kaiser Permanente has provided more than $2.8 million in grants to 74 organizations throughout the Bay Area to help increase access to nutritious food, particularly for vulnerable populations, including older adults.

Research from the California Food Bank Association shows that in 2025:

·24% of California adults were food insecure.

·Among adults living with children, 33% were food insecure.

·The cost of groceries is the leading affordability concern for U.S. adults.

Coupled with funding cuts to food-assistance programs, many Californians are struggling more than ever to put food on the table.

Kaiser Permanente provides much-needed support

Throughout Northern California this year, Kaiser Permanente provided a total of $4.3 million to more than 100 organizations to address food security in every community we serve.

“When people are hungry or unable to access the nutritious food they need for good health, it becomes much harder for them to get well and stay well,” said Yvette Radford, vice president of External and Community Affairs, Kaiser Permanente Northern California. “These grants will strengthen the region’s emergency food system and expand access to food for those most at risk of hunger.”

Access to nutritious food keeps the community healthy

The California Food Bank Association estimates that about 16 million people in California — around 40% of the population — can’t meet the cost of basic needs because their income falls short. As a result, many rely on support from their local food banks

Grants from Kaiser Permanente help ensure local food banks and other organizations can provide vulnerable families and older adults with access to healthy meals and groceries.

One example, a $265,000 grant will help Second Harvest of Silicon Valley expand food access for older adults and provide more fresh produce and culturally relevant food in underserved communities.

“Access to nutritious food is essential for good health, yet far too many of our neighbors are forced to choose between paying for essentials like housing, gas, and health care or buying groceries,” said Leslie Bacho, CEO, Second Harvest of Silicon Valley. “We're grateful to Kaiser Permanente for helping ensure the one in six people in Silicon Valley who turn to Second Harvest has consistent access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.”