Why we do what we do
By connecting people to food, nutrition, and each other, we create a stronger, healthier, more united community.
Second Harvest Origin Story
In 1971, Second Harvest began quite modestly as The Food Bank. Kay Porta believed hunger was unacceptable then and it’s still true today. “I called the first meeting and contacted a bunch of people I thought might be interested,” Kay said. Soon, Kay and her rag tag band of volunteers were rescuing food and distributing it to people who needed it.
We're driven by two powerful beliefs that fuel our approach to fighting hunger.
Nourishing neighbors in need
We believe everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy food that fuels their potential and connects them to a caring community.
Empowering generosity
We create opportunities for donors, volunteers, and partners to dive in and make a tangible difference, transforming surplus into sustenance and strangers into neighbors.
Our values in action
At Second Harvest, we don’t just talk about our values – we roll up our sleeves and live them every day, turning beliefs into action and food into hope.
Hospitality
Food connects us all We bring neighbors together – from farm to table to volunteer line – creating a community united by the power of shared meals and shared purpose.
Belonging
Every person matters Whether you're receiving a helping hand or lending one, you're part of our extended family – facing hunger head-on with heart and hustle.
Gratitude
Powered by partners We’re deeply thankful for every partner whose first harvest makes Second Harvest possible, turning surplus into hope for our neighbors in need.
Board of directors & leadership
Meet the dedicated team guiding our mission, blending big hearts and diverse expertise with tireless effort and careful planning to create something bigger than all of us.
Form 501(c)(3)
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we’re part of a group of organizations dedicated to making our communities better. This IRS designation means we’re tax-exempt and your donations are tax-deductible. It also means we’re committed to using our resources for the greater good, not for private gain. In plain speak: we’re here to feed our neighbors, not to make a profit.
Audited financials
Think of this as our financial report card. Each year, independent experts scrutinize our books to ensure we’re managing your donations responsibly and honestly. It’s our way of showing we walk the talk when it comes to financial integrity.
Annual report
Our yearly highlight reel. It showcases our community’s impact, from meals shared to lives touched, with stories, stats, and financial insights. Curious about what we’ve accomplished together? Dive into our latest report below.
IRS Form 990
The Form 990 is our tax return, but for nonprofits. It gives a snapshot of our finances, activities, and governance. While it‘s not the most exciting read, it’s an important part of our commitment to transparency.
Our privacy policy
We take your privacy as seriously as we take fighting hunger. This policy explains how we handle your information – think of it as our recipe for keeping your data safe.