Loaves and Fishes Expands Food Recovery with New Refrigerated Truck

Martinez, CA — Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa (LFCC) will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the arrival of its new refrigerated truck on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 4:30–6:00 p.m. at the Martinez Dining Room, 835 Ferry Street, Martinez, CA.

Along with the Rotary Club of Martinez, other local Rotary Clubs, individual Rotarians, and the Frank and Norma Macan Memorial, raised funds to make the purchase possible. The refrigerated van will allow LFCC to safely transport donated food that might otherwise end up in landfills. Instead, this food will be transformed into hot, nutritious meals for vulnerable neighbors across Contra Costa County.

Contra Costa continues to face serious challenges with poverty and food insecurity. The county’s poverty rate is 8.25%, with nearly 10% of children living below the poverty line. Many households above the poverty threshold still struggle with rising housing, transportation, and grocery costs, forcing families to choose between food and other essentials.

“Too many families in our county are forced to make impossible choices,” said Janette Kennedy, LFCC Executive Director, Development and External Relations. “This truck strengthens our ability to rescue food, reduce waste, and provide healthy meals to more families, seniors, and individuals in need.”

LFCC has served Contra Costa for 41 years, providing over seven million meals. In the past year alone, it served 534,985 meals and distributed 392 tons of groceries—a sharp increase driven by rising demand. 90% of our daily meals are made from donated food.

The event will include remarks from Loaves and Fishes, recognition of Rotary and donor partners, and light refreshments. The public is invited to attend.

• Date: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
• Time: 4:30–6:00 p.m.
• Location: Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa, Martinez Dining Room 835 Ferry Street, Martinez, CA

About Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa

Since 1983, Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa (LFCC) has provided community-based food programs to fight hunger and support basic needs. As the only daily hot meal program in Contra Costa County, LFCC serves individuals and families, seniors, veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and others in need through five dining rooms and a mobile food distribution program. Last year, LFCC served nearly 534,985 meals and distributed 392 tons of groceries, bringing its total to more than 7 million meals since inception. LFCC also offers a free 12-week Culinary Arts Training Program to help individuals overcome barriers to employment. Guided by its mission to Nourish Lives, LFCC’s doors are open to all, without exception.

About The Rotary Club of Martinez

The Rotary Club of Martinez is a community-focused, non-sectarian, and apolitical organization dedicated to “Service Above Self.” We are part of Rotary International, a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change. Through scholarships, support for seniors, community partnerships, and other activities, the Rotary Club of Martinez actively contributes to the wellbeing of Martinez, helping to nourish, uplift, and strengthen our community.