Document Type
Policy Brief
Publication Date
6-2023
Abstract
The city of Santa Clara faces challenges related to food insecurity and limited access to resources. The high cost of living in Silicon Valley contributes to financial strain for many residents, with a significant portion of households falling between the federal poverty line and the self-sufficiency index. The city currently relies on food pantries and limited free food resources to address food security issues. Santa Clara's Climate Action Plan includes goals to reduce food waste and rescue edible food as part of its efforts to promote sustainability through 2045. Implementing Senate Bill 1383, which aims to reduce organic waste and address food insecurity statewide, is a key aspect of the plan, but a gap exists in the plan regarding food systems overall.
Therefore, this research aims to develop a better grasp of Santa Clara's food system and its vulnerabilities, gaps in access, and areas of untapped potential, as well as increase understanding of the ways in which food insecurity is experienced in the city and how food waste policies can be most effectively utilized to address food insecurity. Key findings include the absence of a dedicated food policy position in Santa Clara, leading to a lack of responsibility and coordination in addressing food justice issues. The absence of a standardized definition of low income hampers efforts to identify and assist vulnerable populations effectively. Language barriers, stigma, and limited knowledge of available resources contribute to underserved communities, such as Vietnamese, Filipino, and Black communities, not accessing food assistance programs fully.
Retailers' prioritization of food recovery is limited, particularly due to staffing challenges and the post-pandemic climate. Second Harvest Food Bank, responsible for food recovery, faces difficulties with turnover and inadequate compensation for retail pickups. The ending of COVID-19 emergency allotments creates increased demand for food pantries and food banks, putting pressure on the emergency food system.
Recommended Citation
Flanagan, Ayla, "Nourishing the Future: Research on Building Sustainable Food Systems for a Resilient and Healthy Santa Clara" (2023). Silicon Valley Power Sustainable Futures Program. 2.
https://scholarcommons.scu.edu/svpsfp/2
