Richmond Emergency Food Pantry
Serving the West Contra Costa County Community since 1971
For more than 50 years, REFP has provided free emergency groceries to families and individuals in Richmond and West Contra Costa County. As a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit, we rely on community support to ensure that no neighbor goes hungry.
14,000 +
Food boxes distributed annually
4,200 +
Individuals Served Monthly
(including more than 1,540 children)
20 +
Volunteers Working Each Distribution Day
(100% Volunteer-run operation)
About Richmond Emergency Food Pantry (REFP)
Richmond Emergency Food Pantry (REFP) has been serving the community since 1971. What started as a small pantry created by local congregations and community partners has grown into a vital resource for families and individuals facing food insecurity in Richmond and West Contra Costa County.
We are a 100% volunteer-run, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that no neighbor goes hungry. Each month, REFP provides thousands of emergency grocery packages—filled with fresh produce, pantry staples, and proteins—to households in need.
Our work is made possible through the generosity of caring neighbors, faith communities, local businesses, and donors like you. Together, we are building a stronger, more nourished community.
How To Receive Food Assistance
Need Groceries? We’re Here to Help.
Low-income households in West Contra Costa County may apply to receive food from the Richmond Emergency Food Pantry. Once approved, you’ll receive a registration card valid for one year, allowing you to pick up groceries once per month.
Pantry Distribution Days
Tuesdays & Fridays
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
2369 Barrett Avenue, Richmond, CA 94804
(Located on the Grace Lutheran Church campus)
What You’ll Need to Bring
Photo ID for the person applying
Names of all of the adults in the household
(Food can be received on the same visit as your application)
Volunteers Needed
Your time is as valuable as your donation. Volunteers keep our doors open and shelves stocked.
Join us for a shift this week and help nourish our Richmond neighbors.
Donate & Make a Difference
Every gift helps us put food directly into the hands of our neighbors in need.
Because we are a 100% volunteer-run pantry, nearly every dollar goes to food—not overhead.
“Hunger is not a problem. It is an obscenity. How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”
– Anne Frank
(1929–1945, Jewish diarist whose writings during World War II became a powerful voice of hope and resilience)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can receive food from REFP?
Any low-income household in Richmond and West Contra Costa County may apply. You will need to show a valid photo ID and declare your monthly household income.
When is the Pantry open?
REFP is open Tuesdays and Fridays, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Please check for holiday closures.
How often can I receive food?
Approved households may pick up food once per month.
What is included in a typical food package?
Packages may include canned and fresh fruits and vegetables, rice, pasta, bread, soup, peanut butter, cereal, meat or fish, and milk. Items may vary depending on availability.
Do I need an appointment?
No appointment is necessary. Numbers are handed out on a first come first served basis beginning around 7:00 a.m. Food distribution begins at 11 a.m. and clients are served in numerical order.
How can I volunteer?
REFP is 100% volunteer! You can sign up to help with food distribution, packing, unloading truck from Food Bank, and/or administrative tasks by visiting our Volunteer page. Once you have provided your contact information, our volunteer coordinator will call you.
Is REFP really run by volunteers?
Yes. Since it opened in 1971, REFP has been 100% volunteer with no paid staff.
Get in touch
Don’t hesitate to reach out to begin your journey or ask any questions. We’re ready to assist and look forward to connecting with you soon.