The Pantry Shelf is the San Lorenzo Family Help Center newsletter, connecting and creating a community of people on a mission to defeat hunger in Alameda County. Donate today to automatically subscribe to our newsletter.
Check out what’s on the shelves in October 2025
Top Shelf – Our Programs
In-Store Program
In the month of September, we served 967 unique families, 32 of which were new clients joining our San Lorenzo Family Help Center community for the first time. The lower than expected participation was due to the extended closure during the first week of September.
Pantry Redesign
The pantry has undergone a redesign which is centered on making the shopping experience welcoming and equitable for all clients. It reflects our belief that families deserve not only food support, but the dignity of choice and the confidence of a safe, clean environment.
The following improvements have been installed in our free-food store, funded through an Alameda County Community Food Bank capacity grant.
- Glass-door display freezer
- Refrigerated display-deli case for premade meals
- Multi-tiered produce shelving
- Individual registration desks
- Appointment text reminders
- 3 Hip-high chairs have been added to our reception room for clients
Together, these upgrades improve food presentation, strengthen food safety practices, and affirm our commitment to creating a pantry environment that mirrors the dignity of a neighborhood grocery store.
Celebrate the Season with Us!
We’re excited to offer holiday-inspired foods for Thanksgiving and Christmas throughout November and December. Please note that quantities are limited, so we encourage you to enjoy them while they last!
We’re also happy to provide Halal food options to ensure everyone can find something they love.
Middle Shelf – Volunteers and Events
Volunteer Spotlight
Milinda serves as our weekday supervisor and is often found warmly assisting clients at registration. We are grateful for her kindness, dedication, and unwavering passion for making the pantry a welcoming space where everyone can thrive.
“I knew when I retired that I wanted to “give back” in my community. I’ve tried lots of volunteer opportunities over the years. When I called the San Lorenzo Family Help Center and went in to see what they were all about, I had a good feeling and started the same day! Now, a year and a half later, I am still onboard! I really feel like I am making a difference in the Eden Area community, and specifically in my area where we now service all of Hayward. I have developed a relationship with a lot of our clients – I know what types of food they like, what “little extras” they may need, next appointment preferences, etc. I don’t give preferential treatment, but I do treat everyone with respect and dignity.”
-Milinda Mayfield
Community Events
We’d love you to join us in these activities; everyone is welcome and we hope to see you there!
Trunk-or-Treat event sponsored by the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office
When: Thursday, October 30, 2025, 6pm-8pm
Where: 1050 Mattox Road, Hayward, CA 94541
More info here or at https://www.instagram.com/p/DPjqGTykl_k/
Light Parade event sponsored by Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce
When: Saturday, November 8, 2025, 3pm-9pm
Where: Castro Valley Boulevard
More info here or at https://www.edenareachamber.com/cvlightparade/
Stocking Our Shelves
Donating Proceeds & Food to The Pantry
There are many ways to support the work we do at the San Lorenzo Family Help Center (SLFHC). In addition to one-time or monthly donations please consider:
- Hosting a fundraiser on our behalf – create an event and invite friends and neighbors, then donate the funds to SLFHC.
- Use your company giving platform and matching program – look to see if San Lorenzo Family Help Center is in your company non-profit donation platform. If we are not, then ask how they can add us.
Leave a legacy and add us to your estate plan – When you include the San Lorenzo Family Help Center in your estate plan, your generosity ensures an impact well into the future.
Please Donate Today and Defeat Hunger in Alameda County
We need your help to defeat hunger in the unincorporated area in and around San Lorenzo in Alameda County, CA. We cannot do it without you.
The San Lorenzo Family Help Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3). When you make your donation, we will provide the Tax ID.
