Bringing the Food Bank to Neighbors' Doorsteps

With our food distribution program, OPDC serves residents who have challenges accessing fresh groceries.

The need for this service became apparent at the beginning of the pandemic. Existing problems were exacerbated—Oakland does not have a grocery store, and shopping can be difficult for residents who don’t have their own form of transportation. Being able to afford food while covering other expenses is also a struggle for our neighbors experiencing poverty and those on fixed incomes.

At the start of the pandemic, OPDC collaborated with partner organizations to offer hot meals, fresh produce, pantry items, and personal protective equipment at Frazier Fieldhouse. In response to the changing needs of the community, OPDC transitioned to a food distribution model in August 2021, partnering with Community Human Services (CHS) Food Pantry in Oakcliffe.

The way the program works is pretty simple. OPDC Community Engagement Specialists reach out to residents on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis to fill their orders. Then, on delivery day, our specialists go to CHS to bag and deliver groceries.

One such recipient is Holly Klein, who lives with her cat Buttercup at our Parkview building in South Oakland. She learned about the service when she got a call from one of OPDC’s specialists. Now, she and her cat receive regular deliveries.

“They have it all noted down what I like,” said Klein, a fan of Sunny D, avocados, and pâté for Buttercup. “Still, they always call and double-check to ask if I want anything else.” 

Taking orders and dropping off deliveries serve as important touchpoints for keeping on top of resident needs.

“We’ve met some neighbors who need more support services,” said Sam Gallagher, Community Engagement Specialist. “When we check in, we can see that. We listen to what they need and connect them with resources.”

The connection can be personal, too.

“That’s what makes us different,” said David Friedman, Community Engagement Specialist. “We want to hear how things are going, what’s bringing them joy, to share with them how they can get involved in the neighborhood. We take the lead from them.”

Jaymar Hill, a resident of OPDC’s Oakland Affordable Living, said this added connection makes all the difference. “I really appreciate them. Through the hard times, they’ve worked with me. It’s rare to find people who really care.”

The food distribution program proved to be popular. Over the course of the year, we grew to capacity: 32 households comprising 50 individuals. With each delivery, “we get to understand the multiple layers that make each person who they are,” said Gallagher. “It’s my favorite part of my job.”