In 1974, several resourceful and innovative community members realized that while thousands of neighbors were hungry, local growers were throwing away millions of pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables. True to Silicon Valley’s innovative nature, these community members founded what is now Second Harvest of Silicon Valley – in a strip garage. Fifty years later, that spirit of innovation, resourcefulness and community involvement is stronger than ever.
We were founded by the community for the community. We started with locally grown fresh produce, volunteers and financial support. While our operations are more sophisticated today, we still rely on many of the same resources: we rescue food from throughout California and beyond, and count on local volunteers and donations to serve 500,000 clients every month. Our community of volunteers, donors, partners and supporters has come together to help neighbors and build what Second Harvest is today.
For 50 years, Second Harvest has been here ensuring that neighbors have access to nutritious food. There have been difficult times: major earthquakes, fires, floods, recessions, technology booms and busts and, of course, a pandemic. Thanks to community support, Second Harvest has been here through whatever crisis Silicon Valley has faced, ensuring that everyone in our community has access to nutritious food. Collectively, we have always found a way — whether in emergencies or all year round. Together, we will continue to meet the immediate need for food assistance in the short term and work to end hunger in our community in the long term.
