MCGives: Alleviate hunger in our community

This is part of a series exploring the different areas of our work that are made possible by your contributions. We’re proud to join in the annual Monterey County Gives! campaign this year: November 11 to December 31, 2021.

Demand for food has grown 400% since early 2020, according to our partners at the Food Bank for Monterey County.

Our Community Seafood Program grew out of this urgent need: feeding thousands of families and individuals in need while also supporting our local fishing economy. Fishermen in Monterey Bay have been feeding our coastal communities for generations, and today, they are feeding the most vulnerable members of our community who need food assistance.

Since its launch in late 2020, the program has donated over 21,000 nutritious seafood meals while supporting 28 local fishermen and 35 seafood workers. We’re proud to make this happen in partnership with our fishing community and the Food Bank for Monterey County, Meals on Wheels, Pajaro Valley Loaves and Fishes, Al & Friends, and several restaurants that participated in the State of California’s Great Plates Delivered program. Donated meals are enjoyed by local students, families, farmworkers, seniors, and others in need.

“In our pantry, giving fresh fish to clients to prepare at home has been an extra special treat,” says Ashley Bridges, director of Pajaro Valley Loaves & Fishes. “Many would not be able to afford to buy this fish. We are grateful to provide this resource.” Learn more and watch video.

As the organizer of the program, the Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust is excited to continue this important work in 2022 with your support.

The Monterey County Gives! campaign is designed to inspire local philanthropy for local nonprofits—including the Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust. You’re invited to contribute! Our goal is to raise $50,000 to support MBFT in the year ahead. At the end of the campaign, each nonprofit receives 100% of their donations, along with a matching gift from participating community partners.

Questions about the campaign? Learn more at montereycountygives.com/faqs