We are a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit providing emergency groceries with dignity and compassion to families in Richmond and West Contra Costa County.
Our Story
In the late 1960s, Contra Costa County had nowhere to send people for emergency food. A new interfaith coalition — GRIP — stepped in. From that act of compassion, the Richmond Emergency Food Pantry was born.
1971 – Pantry opens
The County Social Services Department partners with GRIP to create an emergency food program for local residents.
1978 – A permanent home
REFP moves to Grace Lutheran Church on Barrett Ave., where we still operate today.
1986 – Independent 501(c)(3)
The Pantry becomes its own nonprofit, fully volunteer-run and supported by the community.
Today – Thousands served
We now serve more than 4,000 individuals each month — including more than 1,500 children — entirely through community support.
About Us
Mission: To ensure no neighbor goes hungry by providing emergency groceries with dignity and compassion.
Who we serve: Low-income households in Richmond and West Contra Costa County.
How we operate: 100% volunteer-run. Donations go directly to food and basic operations.
When we’re open: Tuesdays & Fridays, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
1,220+
Households served each month
4,200+
Individuals reached monthly
14,000+
Food boxes annually
400,000+
Pounds of food per year
What guides our work
Every family we meet deserves to be welcomed, respected, and fed. Our all-volunteer model has lasted for five decades because it’s grounded in simple, shared values.
Compassion
We treat every visitor with respect and dignity.
Community
Volunteers, donors, churches, and partners come together to serve.
Integrity
We steward every donation carefully. Admin costs stay low.
Commitment
We’ve shown up since 1971 — and we keep showing up.
What we’re facing
Growing need
More families are visiting the pantry while federal support has declined.
Volunteers
We often need more hands to unload trucks, pack food, and register clients.
Funding
Because we keep admin costs low, community donations are essential to keeping shelves stocked.
Our team & staff
REFP is entirely volunteer-driven — no paid staff. Our Board members and pantry managers handle everything from bookkeeping to distribution.
Ben Kellman
President
Bonnie Whitler
Vice President
Judie Marks
Secretary
Tom Panas
Treasurer
Lovetta Vandiver
Volunteer Coordinator
Patricia Davidson
Pantry Manager
Rosa Martinez
Assistant Pantry Manager
Margaret Fouda
Board Member
Susie Stanley
Board Member
Linda Young
Board Member
Sue Mertens
Board Member
Dina Ezzeddine
Board Member
Photos and Media
A glimpse into our community in action – volunteers, food drives, and partner events.
Financials & transparency
REFP is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Your donation is tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
Because we are 100% volunteer-run, our only recurring administrative expenses are rent, insurance, phone, and a once-a-year fundraising mailer. Every other dollar helps us feed more neighbors.
Federal Tax ID: 68-0106944
“We are ALL neighbors, and are called to help one another.”
– Linda Young, Board Member
Our Partners
We collaborate with the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, Feeding America’s recovery network, local grocery stores, churches, businesses, and volunteers.
Further Reading
These links to external links will provide further information about us, and why we do what we do.
