The study released by the Center for Health Policy Research at U-C-L-A says in 2003, four of ten adults in San Joaquin County who are considered "poor" had to scramble every day to get something to eat. Statewide, the ratio is three out of ten.

San Joaquin food banks don't get a formal report on the number of people looking for assistance, but it has increased in recent years. The Greater Stockton Emergency Food Bank dispenses about four million pounds of food a year. 

Operations Manager, Julie Ellis says last year the bank was forced to alter its hours to accommodate the growing number of clients with full time jobs.  
"They're just not making it. The cost of living has gone sky high and all their money is going to P-G & E and rent. There's just nothing left over."

Food banks rely on grocery stores, produce wholesalers and the public for donations. A number of groceries in the region give the food banks items that are good to eat, but aren't fresh enough for paying customers.

(Photo courtesy: Greater Stoctkon Emergency Food Bank)