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Free Food Resources

A volunteer works in DVC's food pantry.

You don't have to go hungry. Use these local and state food resources to get what you need today.

Shelves lined with canned goods and food.

Pleasant Hill Campus Food Pantry

Many DVC students struggle with money and food. DVC's food pantry at the Pleasant Hill campus provides free food twice a week without proof of need.

San Ramon Campus Food Program

Students currently enrolled at the San Ramon campus may apply for SRC's Food Program.

This is a confidential program to support the nutritional needs of students who are experiencing financial challenges.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) for the current academic year which demonstrates financial need
  • Remain enrolled in at least 3 units at SRC
  • Not concurrently enrolled in high school (College Connect Students are not eligible)

Students who meet the qualifications may apply online or email Kelsey Mayeda (kmayeda@dvc.edu) for assistance.

Be sure to also check out the Basic Needs Nook in W125! The Nook provides students with access to quick, heat-and-eat meals, snacks, toiletries and limited school supplies.

San Ramon Campus Food Bank Lockers

The Student Services and Basic Needs office at San Ramon Campus has collaborated with the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano to provide easy access to grocery items, accessible 24/7 from refrigerated food lockers outside the LC.

Steps to Apply

  • Completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application for the current academic year which demonstrates financial need
  • Register for at least one class at SRC
  • Fill out the SRC Food Program Application and check the box for the “Food Bank Lockers”
  • Get your Order Ahead invitation from SRC Basic Needs and create an account!

Getting Food from the Lockers

  • Visit the Food Bank Order Ahead website and click on the “Diablo Valley College San Ramon
  • Campus” pickup site
  • Select a pickup time
  • Shop what is in stock that week
  • Checkout
  • Get your pick up code and pick up your free groceries!

To receive assistance accessing the Food Bank Lockers, please contact Student Services and Basic Needs at 925-551-6214 or by emailing srcinfo@dvc.edu.

Free Produce Market at Pleasant Hill Campus

These free produce events are held in front of the Student Union Building twice per semester fall and spring providing a variety of vegetables and fruits promoting healthy eating.

External Resources

The resources and organizations listed on this page are provided by entities that operate independently from Diablo Valley College. Diablo Valley College does not assume responsibility for the ongoing accuracy, availability or services provided by these external entities. Students are encouraged to verify information and make decisions based on their individual needs.

  • Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano 
    4010 Nelson Ave, Concord, CA 94520 
    Phone: 855-309-3663

    Alameda County Community Food Bank 
    7900 Edgewater Drive, Oakland, CA 94621 
    Phone: 510-635-3663 
    Emergency Food Helpline: 1-800-870-Food 

    CalFresh

    In Contra Costa County, you can apply for CalFresh in several ways. Learn how to apply.

    Expedited Services: If you are without money for food, you may qualify for emergency CalFresh benefits. Expedited Services will provide eligible households with CalFresh benefits by the third calendar day following their application date. A weekend (Saturday and Sunday) is considered one calendar day. For questions and assistance, please call the 24-hour toll-free information line: 866-663-3225.

    Contra Costa County Certified Farmers' Markets:

    Certified Farmers' Markets (CFMs) were created by "direct marketing" legislation to support California farmers. This allows producers to sell what they grow directly to the public. Unlike other states, to sell at a Certified Farmers' Market in California, the products must be grown by the producer selling them. Direct marketing helps farms of all sizes by giving them an additional way to sell their produce directly from farm to table.

    Get information on the locations and hours of Contra Costa County's Certified Farmers' Markets.

  • In Contra Costa County, around twenty-six percent of adults and children face food insecurities and regularly need extra food. The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines "food insecurity" as a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life.

    According to the 2023 HOPE Center Basic Needs Survey, 36% of Diablo Valley College students experienced limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate and safe food. Food insecurities impact students' ability to concentrate and focus on their academic studies. Students also find it challenging to balance proper nutrition with paying college tuition.