From: Hannah Ryckman
To: Web-City Clerk
Subject: Public Comment- FBSBC
Date: Tuesday, April 1, 2025 2:09:01 PM
Attachments: image001.png
*** EXTERNAL EMAIL: Please use caution when opening links or attachments.*** To Whom it May Concern,
I would like to submit a public comment on behalf of the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County:
Santa Barbara County’s high cost of living pushes many working families to the financial brink. More than half of Santa Maria households—53%—do not earn enough to cover basic needs, and 71% of families with young children struggle to make ends meet. Many of these families earn too much to qualify for government assistance but too little to afford essentials like rent and food. For them, the Foodbank is a vital safety net.
Santa Maria is the Foodbank’s largest service area, accounting for 58% of all the neighbors we serve countywide. In FY24 alone, we partnered with 90 Santa Maria agencies, distributing 5 million pounds of food to more than 124,000 unduplicated individuals. Of those we serve in Santa Maria, 40% are children, 10% are seniors, 5% are unhoused, and 85% are Hispanic/Latino. Through food distribution, education, and partnerships, we are committed to ensuring that every family, child, and senior in Santa Maria has access to the nutrition they need to thrive.
The food security landscape in Santa Barbara County is rapidly changing. Federal and state programs that have been reliable pillars of our food supply are being dramatically reduced or put on hold. With grocery prices remaining high and more families struggling to make ends meet, these challenges come at a time when the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County is already seeing unprecedented demand for services. Our neighbors and partners rely on the Foodbank to access vital nutritious food assistance. This funding will help the Foodbank serve seniors, families, children, and veterans who are experiencing food insecurity. We greatly appreciate your consideration of supporting the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County.
All the Best,
Hannah
Hannah Ryckman
Grants Coordinator
Foodbank of Santa Barbara County
82 Coromar Drive
Goleta, CA 93117
Direct: (805) 403-0504
Moving the Community from Hunger into Health. Learn more at www.foodbanksbc.org.