The Food Bank in Santa Cruz, CA, is dedicated to enhancing the lives of low-income individuals facing dysphagia by providing vital food assistance tailored to their specific needs. We offer a range of essential products, including food thickeners, pre-modified foods, therapy tools, oral care supplies, and adaptive equipment. Our mission is to ensure that those living with dysphagia have access to the resources necessary for maintaining health and dignity, helping them to navigate their dietary challenges with confidence and care. We invite individuals in need to connect with us to receive personalized support and essential supplies.

Low-Cost Meals in Santa Cruz, CA, is dedicated to ensuring that families have access to nutritious, organic meals delivered right to their doorstep. Our program offers a convenient weekly delivery service that includes three complete entrees with delicious side dishes, a pint of soup, a pint of salad, and a healthy dessert—all ready to heat and enjoy. We believe in making healthy eating accessible, which is why we operate on a sliding scale suggested donation of $10 to $35 per person, per week. Whether you need regular meals or help navigating dietary needs, our caring team is here to support you.

Basic Needs Assistance in Santa Cruz, CA is dedicated to uplifting our community by providing essential food assistance to those in need. We prioritize the dignity of every individual, offering emergency food support including nutritious meals and food vouchers to families and individuals facing hardship. Our mission extends beyond food, as we also connect with our neighbors through home visits and additional assistance tailored to the unique challenges faced by the poor, homeless, and marginalized members of our community. We believe in fostering a supportive environment where everyone can access the resources they require to thrive.

Located in Santa Cruz, CA, the Dysphagia Outreach Project Food Bank is dedicated to providing essential food assistance to low-income individuals facing dysphagia. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those with swallowing difficulties by offering vital resources such as food thickeners, pre-modified foods, therapy tools, oral care supplies, and adaptive equipment. We understand the importance of proper nutrition and care for our clients, and we strive to ensure that everyone has access to the support they need to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. To access our services, individuals can visit us in Santa Cruz where our warm and knowledgeable team is ready to assist.

Operating in Santa Cruz, CA, CORE is dedicated to providing urgent financial assistance for families who work in the restaurant industry and are facing hardships due to illness or medical emergencies. We understand the challenges that come with unexpected medical costs, and we’re here to help by covering essential expenses such as rent or mortgage, utilities, medical bills, childcare costs, and more. Our mission is to support food and beverage service employees with children, ensuring they can navigate tough times with a bit of relief. Former grant recipients are welcome to reapply after 12 months, acknowledging both ongoing and new qualifying circumstances, while maintaining a cap on lifetime assistance to ensure resources reach as many families as possible.

California WIC in Santa Cruz, CA, is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, as well as infants and children up to five years old. Our program provides essential resources including nutritious supplemental foods, practical nutrition guidance, breastfeeding support, and referrals to important healthcare and community services. In response to COVID-19, we are committed to ensuring that families continue to receive the assistance they need. We encourage anyone concerned about visiting our offices to reach out ahead of time, as we have implemented special procedures to expedite access to WIC benefits, keeping families healthy and informed during these challenging times.

At Food Stamp Assistance in Santa Cruz, CA, we are dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate the application process for food assistance programs, specifically SNAP benefits. Our mission is to ensure that the safety net is accessible without adding to the stress of financial hardship. We offer a user-friendly screening tool to determine eligibility for food assistance, making the process straightforward and compassionate. By texting FOOD (or COMIDA for Spanish) to 74544, you can complete a quick eligibility screener right from your phone, and if eligible, we guide you through the necessary steps to apply for SNAP. We also connect you with community partners who can assist you further, ensuring that help is within reach for everyone who needs it. Together, we strive to alleviate hunger and support those in need in our community.

At the Selma Schimmel Vital Grant in Santa Cruz, CA, we are dedicated to providing critical financial assistance to individuals grappling with chronic, terminal, or rare medical conditions, including cancer, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease. Our program focuses on alleviating the financial burden through utility assistance and grocery assistance, ensuring that those in need can maintain essential services or access nourishing food during challenging times. While our grant specifically covers either utilities or groceries, we are committed to connecting our recipients with partnered organizations that offer additional support. Together, we strive to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those facing significant health challenges.

Critical Financial Assistance in Santa Cruz, CA, is dedicated to supporting military families navigating challenging financial circumstances. We offer a variety of essential services, including food assistance, auto and home repair, vision care, transportation, and moving support, alongside rent-free transitional housing for wounded veterans and their loved ones. Our mission is to provide crucial financial relief, covering costs related to auto payments, child care, medical needs, essential home items, and more. We invite eligible individuals to apply through our online portal for assistance, understanding that our commitment to service may lead to some delays due to high demand. Together, we strive to empower those who have served our nation during their times of need.

Located in Santa Cruz, CA, the Financial Resource Center is dedicated to alleviating the financial burdens faced by families grappling with cancer. We understand that a cancer diagnosis can lead to difficult choices, such as whether to pay for rent or medical copays, buy groceries or cover transportation to treatments. Our mission is to ensure that every family has the necessary financial support to maintain their health and well-being, with access to emergency food, housing assistance, and resources that keep homes stable and productive during a challenging time. By addressing the intersection of financial strain and medical needs, we strive to improve health outcomes for families facing cancer across the nation.

Located in Santa Cruz, CA, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society is dedicated to providing essential financial assistance and counseling to active duty and retired Sailors and Marines facing a variety of financial challenges. Our mission is to support military personnel by offering funds for critical needs such as food, housing, utilities, and healthcare. We also provide financial education to empower our clients in managing their resources effectively. Whether you're dealing with expenses related to rent, essential home repairs, medical bills, or unforeseen costs like funeral expenses, we are here to help navigate these challenges. Our services extend to cover costs associated with establishing new residences and even car repairs. We invite eligible service members to reach out to our office for personalized assistance and guidance tailored to your situation, ensuring you receive the support you deserve during difficult times.

Supportive Services for BIPOC Sex Workers is a vital collective in Santa Cruz, CA, championing the needs and rights of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in the sex trades. Led by and for performers and sex workers, we empower our community through strong advocacy and dedicated leadership at every decision-making level. Our mission is to provide essential labor support, financial assistance, and facilitate essential access to mental health, medical care, and legal services, ensuring that those from the Global Majority have the resources and support they deserve in their work. We stand together to uplift marginalized voices and foster a more equitable future for all.

At Financial Assistance Funds in Santa Cruz, CA, we are dedicated to supporting children with special health care needs and their families by alleviating the financial burdens they face. Our program offers critical financial assistance that can be used for medical costs such as prescriptions, medical bills, and durable medical equipment, as well as non-medical expenses like home modifications and daily necessities. We also help with healthcare utilization costs, including travel to medical appointments and lodging for families. With grants available up to $500 per year per family, we work to ensure that urgent requests are reviewed promptly, providing a lifeline to those who need it most. We are committed to making a positive impact in our community by providing compassionate support and practical help when it is needed the most.