OC Supervisor Andrew Do Partners with Saddleback Church for Monthly Drive-Thru Food Banks at Mile Square Park

Orange County families in need of food assistance can access fresh produce and other essential pantry items every month at the First District’s Drive-Thru Food Bank, hosted by Supervisor Andrew Do and Saddleback Church.

“Food insecurity has worsened for many Orange County families and seniors as a result of COVID-19,” said Vice Chairman Andrew Do.

“Vulnerable communities, especially the elderly, have been confined to their homes, unable to go to the grocery store for essential items,” he added. “That is why back in June, I partnered with Saddleback Church to provide Orange County residents nutritious boxes filled with produce, shelf-stable foods, protein, and other essential needs.”

With more than 200 volunteers, the initial meal distribution event at Mile Square Park served approximately 1,200 families struggling to access food. As of today, Supervisor Do’s drive-thru food banks have served more than 4,500 families – and counting.

“Accessing the drive-thru food banks at Mile Square Park is very easy,” said Supervisor Do. “Residents can either drive to the park or walk. Those who bring their car, simply need to open up their trunk and drive through different stations where volunteers place boxes of nutritious food and other produce inside.”

During the start of the pandemic, Supervisor Do worked with First District community leaders and residents to develop two programs designed to ensure our most vulnerable populations had access to a healthy meal: Pop-Up Pantries and the Neighborhood Meal Delivery Program.

“During this time of need, it has been inspiring to watch our community come together to help and support one another,” said Supervisor Do. “It was heartwarming to see so many residents reach out to my office wanting to host pop-up pantries in their neighborhoods and signing up to deliver hot meals to their neighbors in need.”

“I see this community support as a great sign of the future of our county, and a testament to the resilient spirits of our community members,” he added.

In addition to the monthly drive-thru events at Mile Square Park, Supervisor Do’s office hosts other meal and food banks throughout the First District.