Edible Food Recovery Program

Food recovery services can be found at many different locations. Hours of operation are subject to change; call to confirm dates & times.

Food Banks:

Oasis Family Resource Center - Community Action Partnership of Kern Food Bank

A partner distribution organization of the Feeding America Network that provides food and other resources to meet the needs of economically disadvantaged Kern County residents. Programs include the Emergency Food Assistance Program, Senior Food Program, and Snack Attack (an after-school program). Accepted food donations include: shelf-stable/non-perishable foods.

Waste Hunger Not Food, Kern County

Led by Kern County Department of Public Health Services, Waste Hunger Not Food rescues surplus edible food from generators and distributes it to those in need, both reducing waste and helping address hunger. Local distribution (Ridgecrest) via Salvation Army (see below). Accepted food donations include: fresh produce, fresh/frozen groceries, baked goods, cold/frozen prepared foods, meat/dairy, and shelf-stable/non-perishable foods. Exceptions include: baby food/formula with exceeded expiration dates, homemade/restaurant food w/o valid health permit, food portions previously served to consumers. 

Coyote Cupboard, Cerro Coso Hunger Free Campus

Created to address food insecurity for enrolled students - must provide student identification. Provides food & toiletries, resources, and support for Ridgecrest campus students in need. Accepted food donations: shelf-stable/non-perishable foods.

Food Assistance Programs:

Kern County Aging & Adult Services: Senior Nutrition

Provides food assistance to senior citizens aged 60 and over, in the form of cafeteria and home-delivered meals. Programs include Senior Nutrition, Meals on Wheels, and Supplemental Food Assistance. For general program information, contact Kern County at 661-868-1000. Accepted food donations include: fresh groceries & produce, baked goods, and shelf-stable/non-perishable foods. 

Food Pantries:

Salvation Army, Ridgecrest Corps

Provides shelter, financial assistance, disaster services, casework & addiction services, and a food pantry. Accepted food donations include: fresh produce, fresh/frozen groceries, baked goods, cold/frozen prepared foods, meat/dairy, and shelf-stable/non-perishable foods. 

Women's Center High Desert

Provides a network of services relating to domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking for East Kern county and surrounding areas. Food resources are provided to women's shelter clients and available for any members of the community affected by domestic/family violence. Accepted food donations include: fresh produce, fresh/frozen groceries, cold/frozen prepared foods, hot prepared foods, baked goods, and shelf-stable/non-perishable foods.