Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to reside in Berkeley or Albany to get emergency groceries from the Berkeley Food Pantry
We are a small pantry, so we only have the resources to serve people who reside, work, or go to school in Berkeley or Albany, California.
What should I know when coming to pick up my groceries?
Please bring an ID to show the person who will check you in. If your ID does not show that you live in Berkeley or Albany, please provide documentation showing that you live, work, or are enrolled in school in Berkeley or Albany.
How many times a month can I come to the Berkeley Food Pantry?
Please come when you are out of food and need emergency help. If you are in immediate need and we are closed, please call the Alameda County Community Food Bank Hotline at (510) 635-3663.
Do you provide home delivery?
Yes, we do provide home delivery. However, due to high demand, we can no longer accept applications for this service.
What is the process of obtaining food?
We encourage visitors to come to the Berkeley Food Pantry at 2 pm to pick-up groceries. Please be aware that we have a small parking lot, so we encourage visitors to park on the street. The line moves quickly, so you will not wait long. Once you are at the check-in counter, please provide a photo ID. If the photo ID does not show a Berkeley or Albany address, please provide a document to show you live, work, or attend school in Berkeley or Albany. Some examples of documents you could provide: mail with your current address, rental or lease agreement, utility bill, W-2 form, student ID, or school transcript.
Can I use the restroom?
At this time, we cannot offer people our restroom facilities. Thank you for your understanding.
What are Pantry holidays?
Pantry holidays can be found on our Location and Hours page.
Should I wash my groceries when I take them home?
We currently suggest that everyone wash or sanitize their vegetables and fruit for 20 seconds before using them.
Do You Give Out Expired Food?
No, we never knowingly give out expired food. We freeze meat, fish, and other frozen foods before the expiration date. We use donated egg cartons to repackage eggs, so the dates on the cartons may not match. To learn more about this, please see the Alameda County Community Food Bank's Food-and-Code-Date-Extensions pamphlet.