URGENT UPDATE: The Vacaville Storehouse pantry at 1146 Monte Vista Ave. is set to close its doors, concluding its food distribution service on December 19. This critical change will end its long-standing Tuesday and Friday operations, impacting hundreds of families who rely on its support.
Officials from the Storehouse, a ministry of the Father’s House church, have confirmed that the pantry will merge with We Love Our City (WLOC), a separate nonprofit, to deliver food only on Saturday mornings at the church located at 4800 Horse Creek Drive. This announcement was made through their website, highlighting a shift in how they serve families in need throughout Vacaville and surrounding areas.
The decision to close the pantry comes as a response to rising operational costs and the need to better manage resources. The organization stated that this transition aims to “focus our efforts where they can make the greatest difference, while continuing to serve families and individuals in need with excellence and compassion,” according to a press release.
Concern is mounting among community members and volunteers. A source within the Storehouse, who wishes to remain anonymous, revealed that clients had not yet been informed of the closure. “It’s sad that they chose to close,” the volunteer expressed, emphasizing the pantry’s role in serving at-risk and homeless residents in the area.
News of the shutdown has spread rapidly through local advocacy networks. Gail Thomson, a community advocate, responded with shock, stating, “Oh no! I hadn’t heard about that.” Her husband, former County Supervisor Skip Thomson, noted the severe impact this closure will have: “Whenever the Storehouse is open, the line of people wraps around the corner. It will impact a lot of people.”
Kaiser Permanente, a key contributor to the Storehouse, has provided unpurchased prepared food for distribution. As of Wednesday, Kaiser officials had not commented on whether their donations will continue or be redirected to WLOC or another food security partner.
The Storehouse announcement confirmed that food distribution will continue on Saturday mornings, and they will partner with local food banks to ensure that food reaches those in need. However, the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County still lists the Storehouse as a food distribution location, leaving many unsure if their clients will be referred to other nearby sites.
The Storehouse has been a vital resource for over a decade, providing free food to vulnerable community members. As volunteers were seen loading and unloading pallets in front of the building, the organization expressed gratitude to its supporters: “We are grateful for the many volunteers, donors, and community partners who have faithfully supported the Storehouse Ministry over the years. Your generosity has made it possible to provide hope and help to countless families.”
As the final days approach for the Vacaville Storehouse pantry, the community is left grappling with the implications of this significant change. Stay tuned for updates on how the transition will affect food access for families in need.
