First Congregational Church of Bakersfield-UCC
Food Pantry
Big Changes are Coming to the FCC Food Pantry!
At First Congregational Church of Bakersfield, our mission has always been to serve our neighbors with dignity and care. To make our services more efficient and sustainable, we are excited to announce a significant update to how we operate.
Moving from Paper to Digital
Starting in February, the FCC Food Pantry will transition from our traditional paper sign-in process to a new electronic computer check-in system.
This change is part of a mandatory update across all CAPK Food Bank partner pantries. By moving to a digital system, we can better track the needs of our community and ensure that we are meeting the requirements to keep our shelves stocked for years to come.
What This Means for You
We know that change can sometimes be a bit stressful, so we want to be as transparent as possible about what to expect during your next visit:
A Temporary "Slow Down": Because this system is new to both our volunteers and our visitors, the check-in process will take a bit longer than usual during the first few weeks.
Wednesday Distribution: Our pantry will still operate on its regular Wednesday schedule (8:30 AM – 11:30 AM). Please consider arriving with a little extra time to account for the new process.
We Are Here to Help: Our friendly volunteers will be on-site to guide you through the new check-in steps. We are all learning together!
A Note of Gratitude
We want to thank you in advance for your patience and understanding. We are so grateful for the opportunity to serve this community every Wednesday, and we appreciate your grace as we navigate this transition.
Have questions? Feel free to chat with one of our site coordinators during your next visit, or contact the church office for more information.
A Place of Care, Compassion, and Community
At First Congregational Church of Bakersfield, we believe no one should go hungry. Every week, our FCC Food Pantry serves over 800 people across our community: neighbors facing food insecurity, families struggling to make ends meet, seniors on fixed incomes, and individuals simply needing a helping hand.
🛒 Wednesdays | 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM (or while supplies last)
📍 5 Real Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93309
💙 No registration. No requirements. Just a warm welcome and a bag of food.
But right now, we need your help.
Recent federal cuts to food assistance programs are making it harder for nonprofits like ours to meet the growing need. We're doing everything we can, but we're stretched thin. Every bag of food we give out costs money to fill. And when shelves run low, hearts grow heavy.
👉 Will you help us keep feeding Bakersfield?
Whether you’re able to make a one-time gift, pledge monthly support, or share this message, every dollar helps us bridge the gap and care for our neighbors with dignity and love.
Together, we can ensure no one is turned away hungry.
Please follow us on our Facebook Page for the most current information about our FCC Food Pantry or email us at fccfoodpantry@fccbakersfield-ucc.org or leave a voice message at 661-327-1609.
Are you in need of more resources?
More than ever people need food assistance. Below are contact numbers and/or websites that have a current list of Food Pantries that are open.
211 Kern
2-1-1 Kern County, a program of Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK), provides comprehensive information and referral services that link Kern County residents to community health and human services and support. Services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Call 211 for assistance
or go to
www.211kerncounty.org
Food Pantries
Food Pantries provides information on food closets, food banks, soup kitchens, congregate meal locations, food boxes, vouchers, etc.
www.FoodPantries.org
CapK
CapK plans to continue to serve the community at this time. In a message from the food bank, CAPK said they are continuing regular food distribution and wants to remind the public that if they come to a distribution event to practice social distancing.