ALF Food Pantry (Atascadero Loaves and Fishes) is a secular nonprofit 501c(3) providing groceries to individuals and families in need of food.  Serving residents of the communities of Atascadero, Templeton, Santa Margarita, Creston and the California Valley, ALF Food Pantry is an all-volunteer organization operating since 1984.

Why do local families come to ALF Food Pantry?  Many are on limited incomes:  social security or disability only.  Families may have faced a sudden expense (an appliance failure or a medical crisis) or a parent has had their work hours reduced.  Part-time workers face economic insecurity.  Some individuals are homeless, living in a car or RV.  Each client meets briefly with an intake volunteer who often refers the client to other service providers such as The Link or ECHO.

ALF’s work has increased steadily in its 39 years.  ALF Food Pantry served the equivalent of 306,200 meals in 2022, providing meat, eggs, milk, fresh produce and shelf stable items to individuals who can access the food pantry twice each month.  Open 5 days a week, in a “typical” month, pantry volunteers serve 426 households (1-8 persons).  Our client numbers continue to increase as do our food costs.

ALF Food Pantry Looks to the Future.  This year ALF Food Pantry began using a customized database system to maintain statistics and to streamline our processes.  We are seeking a building for acquisition, and aim to triple our space.  Increased space will allow for increased storage thereby improving the quality of the food provided.

ALF Food Pantry is a community resource, maintaining relationships with ECHO, CAPSLO, Transitions Mental Health, Escuela del Rio, Meals that Connect, Transitional Food and Shelter, the Salvation Army, and the Link.  We are a major partner with the SLO Food Bank.