Drive Thrus for Food in the Diocese of San Jose: A Response to Covid-19
Title: Catholic Charities in San Jose Addressing Food Insecurity Amidst Pandemic Challenges
In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Catholic Charities in the Diocese of San Jose, California, is stepping up to address the growing needs of the community. Through weekly food “Drive Thrus” coordinated with parish chapters of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, as many as 1,000 families are being fed in 90 minutes, reaching a total of 50,000 people every week.
Father Jon G. Pedigo, director for advocacy and community engagement of Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County, emphasized the importance of setting up an infrastructure to provide not only immediate relief but also long-term recovery. The organization is working to transition from a food program to person-to-person care, collaborating with other nonprofit agencies to offer comprehensive services.
The pandemic has exacerbated existing income inequality in California’s Bay Area, where billionaires live alongside the poor in Silicon Valley. Many families are struggling to make ends meet, with some sharing cramped living spaces with multiple people, making it difficult to shelter in place safely.
Rental assistance is a pressing need, as families who were already living paycheck to paycheck are now facing the prospect of being unable to pay back rent once the moratorium is lifted. The financial impact of the pandemic has also led to layoffs and reduced hours in the Diocese of San Jose, though efforts are being made to ensure that schools remain open and students continue to receive support.
Despite the challenges, Catholic Charities and the local parishes are working tirelessly to provide for the community’s needs. The spirit of community and collaboration has been evident in the efforts to address food insecurity, financial struggles, and educational challenges during these uncertain times.
As Father Pedigo aptly puts it, “We’re creating a network of people to see each other. We’re never going to go back to the same siloed lives we had before. The questions and conversations will be different.”