Responding to Rising Food Insecurity
In 2025, many Alta households continued to struggle to afford food and household essentials, leading to a rise in requests for assistance.
This increase in need placed additional pressure on resident services staff, onsite food pantry operations, and our food partners. To help pay for additional resources for our Palo Alto residents, Alta Housing applied for an Emerging Needs Fund grant from the City of Palo Alto. This support allowed for timely, direct assistance to residents facing food insecurity and basic-needs gaps, helping stabilize households during a period of heightened uncertainty and preventing deeper hardship.
We also enhanced our partnerships with Second Harvest Food Bank and Martha’s Kitchen to ensure that all of our on-site food pantries are consistently and reliably restocked. This strengthened collaboration allows us to provide steady access to fresh produce, proteins, and staple items for any community members who need additional support.
Food Security Programs
109,000 pounds of food delivered from Second Harvest Food Bank
65,160 pounds of food delivered from Martha’s Kitchen
2,600 meals from Loaves & Fishes were delivered to Sheridan apartments residents
“The Grab N Go food program is a huge help for our family of five. Food costs have skyrocketed, making it difficult to put food on the table every month. The Grab N Go has been a big relief in not worrying if we have enough food or not.”
“The Farmer’s Market has helped me provide food for my children in times when we have not been able to fully support them. This year, I was placed on leave in November. My kids are fed and happy.”
Volunteer Support in Food Distribution
Our volunteers and community members show up week after week to ensure their neighbors have access to fresh and nutritious food.
volunteer hours supporting food access across our communities