It’s a partnership that spans two decades, has distributed over 2 million pounds of food, and serves over 245 families each year. With the help of Alvin Low, Steve and Marian Fong, and the San Francisco/Marin Food Bank, our Food Pantry Program began 20 years ago, on December 2, 1997.
Harry Chuck was instrumental in getting the grant for the program, and Ruth Leong volunteered for the very first grocery distribution (and remained a volunteer long afterwards). Every week for 20 years, rain or shine, our dedicated volunteers have worked tirelessly and selflessly. Arriving at Cameron House by 10:00 am, they calculate allotments, set up tables, and prep the food. By 12:45 pm, low- and extremely low-income Chinatown residents stand outside the chain-link gates on Sacramento Street, shopping bags in hand, waiting patiently. As the gates open at 1:00 pm, everyone lines up and begins the process of signing in and receiving their portions of the fresh vegetables and fruit, eggs, and dried goods for the week.
As the cost of rent and food in San Francisco soars, the food these families receive from Cameron House makes a huge difference. It not only alleviates their hunger, it incorporates healthful fruits and vegetables to their diets. And with the groceries, they receive a friendly smile, warm greeting, and the dignity they deserve simply because they exist. Thank you to the San Francisco/Marin Food Bank and to everyone who has dedicated their time to our Food Pantry during the past 20 years – you have brought hope, health, and happiness to thousands of lives!
A HUGE THANK YOU …
to Mary and Dayton Leong, the two people who worked their magic behind the scenes. Coordinating all the details for this event took an incredible amount of time and effort, and Mary managed all of it while still staying on top of her regular work!
Dayton, in his usual style, prepared a fabulous meal of delectable salmon, salad, noodles, and fresh fruit. Thank you both for your herculean efforts – our Anniversary was a gigantic success because of you!
See a list of the wonderful volunteers who have devoted their time to our Food Pantry over the years!