What is the USDA Food Distribution?
USDA's food distribution programs strengthen the nutrition safety net through the distribution of USDA Foods and other nutrition assistance to children, low-income families, emergency feeding programs, Indian reservations, and the elderly. This service is open to all students, staff, and community members in need of food assistance! The distribution of shelf-stable items are a way for low-income households to supplement their diet, perhaps freeing up some funds for other expenses. Recipients must sign in to self-certify that they are a resident of the area where they are picking up food and that they meet the income guidelines for the program that appear below—no documentation beyond a self-certification is needed if you are picking up for yourself.
2024 Income guidelines can be viewed HERE.
If you are unable to make it to the scheduled distribution point, you can designate someone else to pick up food for you. The person picking up for you must bring an alternate pickup form signed by you (the food recipient) certifying your family size, income, and address. A new form is necessary every time you have someone else pick up food for you.
2024 Alternative pick-up form - HERE.
As of July 2024:
Date and Time:
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Every 3rd Friday of the month
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1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
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Distribution Model: Drive-Thru and Walk-ups supported
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Contact Information:
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Merced County Food Bank
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Phone Number: (209)-726-3663
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Location:
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Saint Patrick’s Parish - 671 E. Yosemite Avenue Merced, California 95348
Volunteer Opportunity:
- The day before the distribution students can volunteer to support with bagging the food that will be distributed.
- Day of distribution - support with the unique needs of each distribution site.
- Food distributions no longer occur on a regular schedule, please check our calendar for more details such as time and location.
- For volunteer related questions or concerns, please contact the Community Engagement Center. Email: communityservice@ucmerced.edu
- If you are interested in volunteering, there are two different opportunites available to support the USDA Food Distribution!Learn more HERE
Current UC Merced Students ride for free with active Student ID card (CAT CARD) on all bus routes.
Last Updated: Oct. 18, 2024