Second Harvest Food Bank

of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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  1. How much of my donation directly benefits programs and services?
  2. How do I coordinate a Share Your Lunch drive for my group or company?
  3. I am not affiliated with an company or a group; can I still help?
  4. Will our group's donations to the Share Your Lunch campaign be included in our 2010 award point totals?
  5. How many kids might go hungry this summer?
  6. What foods do you purchase with financial contributions?
  7. What types of foods can we donate to the Share Your Lunch campaign?

1. How much of my donation directly benefits programs and services?

Because of our ability to purchase food in bulk quantities and our incredible volunteer force, 95¢ of every $1 donated directly benefits the community. We have earned a 4-star rating by Charity Navigator, America's premier independent charity evaluator.

2. How do I coordinate a Share Your Lunch drive for my group or company?

We make it easy for you to start a drive! Simply enroll to ensure that the donations contributed by individuals in your group can be linked back to your efforts! Enroll online now or call the Donor Hotline at 866-234-FOOD (3663).

You can choose from a variety of promotional materials such as stickers, promotional cards, posters, and barrels.

3. I am not affiliated with a company or group; can I still help?

Yes! If you are an individual not associated with an organization you can show your support by:

4. Will our group's donations to the Share Your Lunch campaign be included in our 2010 award point totals?

Yes. All donations beginning February 1, 2010 that are connected to your company or group will be included in your award point totals. For every $1 donated you earn 2.5 points, and for every pound donated you earn 1 point. When you make a donation, remember to indicate your company or group's name and ID number so that we may give you credit. Learn about the awards you can win!

5. How many kids might go hungry this summer?

According to the California Food Policy Advocates, 120,524 children are eligible for subsidized school meals in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. During the summer, these children are at an increased risk for going hungry.

6. What foods do you purchase with financial contributions?

We use cash donations to buy healthy foods that are appealing to children, such as fresh produce, granola bars, juice, cereal, tuna and crackers. We have nutritionists on staff to ensure that all food allocations are balanced and meet the minimum food guidelines.

7. What types of foods can we donate to the Share Your Lunch campaign?

If you choose to donate food, please refer to our list of most-needed foods for children.

boy at school

This summer, Second Harvest will distribute an increased amount of fresh fruits and vegetables to programs serving children.

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Copyright 2009 Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties