By Cris Alarcon | El Dorado County News
CAMERON PARK, Calif. — Nearly 14,000 El Dorado County residents who depend on CalFresh benefits each month have been left struggling after federal food assistance was suspended in November due to the ongoing government shutdown. With Republicans and Democrats still at an impasse over the federal budget, families across the county have turned to the Food Bank of El Dorado County for help putting food on the table.
The surge in demand has placed immense strain on the Food Bank’s resources. Director Mike Sproull quickly sought solutions, turning to state and local partners for aid. That call was answered by the California Department of Social Services, which mobilized the California National Guard to provide emergency support.
On November 5, National Guard members from across the state arrived at the Food Bank’s Cameron Park distribution warehouse. Working side by side with volunteers, they sorted produce, packed food bags, and organized deliveries to serve the growing number of families in need.
“Our first priority was El Dorado County’s most at-risk residents—our elders,” said David Morla, the Food Bank’s Distribution Manager. National Guard members helped assemble and distribute food boxes for the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians Elder Outreach Program, while The Upper Room Dining Hall joined the effort by providing each senior with a $100 grocery gift card.
District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo visited the warehouse to personally thank the National Guard, the Food Bank team, and community partners for their swift action in supporting local families.
“The outpouring of cooperation and compassion has been incredible,” said Sproull. “When our neighbors are hungry, we come together to make sure no one is left behind.”
The Food Bank of El Dorado County is calling on residents who are able to help during the shutdown—through volunteering, food donations, or financial contributions—to step forward. Every effort counts as the community works together to care for its most vulnerable neighbors.
