Many people who qualify for CalFresh never apply because of myths and misinformation surrounding the program. During CalFresh Awareness Month, Open Heart Kitchen is sharing facts about eligibility, the application process, and how CalFresh helps individuals and families access nutritious food. Learn how this vital program supports our community and why everyone deserves access to healthy meals.

One year ago, Open Heart Kitchen launched the Open Heart Food Bank with a bold vision: to strengthen the Tri-Valley’s fight against hunger through partnership, compassion, and community. The food bank has redistributed over 836,863 meals worth of groceries.

Open Heart Kitchen turned 30 years old in 2025, and it was one of the most successful years of service and impact for the organization.

Nearly 50 million Americans are living in food-insecure households, according to the latest—and final—Household Food Security Report from the USDA’s Economic Research Service. Hunger is rising across the country, impacting children, seniors, families, and communities like ours here in the Tri-Valley. Learn what the data reveals, what changes to federal food programs mean for our neighbors, and how Open Heart Kitchen is responding to meet this growing need.