As one of the largest food banks in California, Second Harvest Food Bank’s focus on ensuring food security for children and seniors has never been more vital in its 46-year history.  

“The big reason why I got into this world is because of how much I care that everyone deserves a meal,” said Keezer-Lewis, a University of Idaho graduate who began her career at The Idaho Foodbank over 12 years ago. 

"Anyone that needs one deserves a meal. Food is essential to thrive.”

With unprecedented demand and an amplified need for access to food, Keezer-Lewis has been steadfast behind the scenes to increase Second Harvest Food Bank’s food reserves and meet demand.

Back in February during pre-COVID times, providing six million pounds of food would have been a milestone for one of the largest food banks operating in California.  

Second Harvest Food Bank is expected to distribute nearly 12 million pounds of food this month alone.

Today, Second Harvest Food Bank has doubled their distribution efforts through a combination of food donations from local purveyors, individual growers, and by using donated funds to acquire food.

“One of the big things that we are able to do is to actually purchase a percentage of our food,” the 12-year food sourcing veteran admitted.

“We are so grateful to many of our financial donors that have allowed us to do that.”

In challenging times, heroes are not defined by their words, but by their actions.

California National Guard was deployed to food banks across California in late March, including Second Harvest Food Bank of Silicon Valley to help with food handling.

So, for an experienced food sourcing manager like Keezer-Lewis, the ability to pivot and rise to the occasion is not just a testament of her character, but of her commitment to serving those in need.

Second Harvest Food Bank has seen a sharp 80% increase in demand for their services, and with heroes working behind the scenes to increase food reserves— our most vulnerable residents won't have to choose between medicine or a meal.

“It’s so important to make sure we help folks who need a meal, so they don’t have to worry about paying their bills, or paying for this or that,” the Pocatello, Idaho native turned Campbell resident explained.

“No one should have to say, should I pay for my medicine? Or should I buy food?”

Silicon Valley might be the home of tech innovation, but it is quickly becoming the home of sustenance innovation.

At the beginning of July, Second Harvest Food Bank has distributed nearly two million weekly meals to community-based organizations, according to food distribution data for Santa Clara County.

The dramatic increase in food distribution capabilities is solely due to the vital behind-the-scenes work of food sourcing managers who are often unrecognized.

However, for one food sourcing manager who has made Silicon Valley her new home, now was the time to rise to the occasion— now was the time to put on her cape.

“There used to be a stigma [about food assistance], and I think this pandemic has kind of lifted that a little bit,” said Keezer-Lewis, #SiliconValleyStrong’s newest food hero.

“Being able to get a meal if you need one, you shouldn’t have to feel bad about it.”

If you would like to donate food, funds, or volunteer at Second Harvest Food Bank, visit www.shfb.org to learn how you can help support your community.

To access food, visit shfb.org/getfood or call 1-800-984-3663 and one of their Food Connection Specialists can help you find out if you qualify.

#SiliconValleyStrong #SVEats #KeepSVHealthy