“While Mercy Brown Bag Program will always give seniors the groceries they need, we dream of a day when all seniors have enough resources so they do not have to choose between a place to live, medicine, or food to eat.” — Mercy Brown Bag Program

 

 

The Mercy Brown Bag Program, headquartered in Oakland’s Fruitvale neighborhood, is a shining example of how a community-driven organization can make a difference in the lives of those in need. Founded in 1983 by Sister Mary Gertrude Murphy, a Sister of Mercy, the program's mission is to provide nutritious food to seniors who live on limited incomes.

 

 

What began as a small food pantry has grown into a multifaceted program that serves over 4,000 individuals each month. The Mercy Brown Bag Program provides a weekly bag of fresh produce and healthy staples to eligible participants at several distribution sites throughout the East Bay.

 

 

Photo credits: Mercy Brown Bag Program

 

To obtain the high-quality, fresh produce and pantry staples, the program works in cooperation with the USDA as well as local farmers. They also make purchases from the Alameda County Food Bank. Each bag is carefully curated to ensure that recipients receive a balance of fruits, vegetables, grains, and healthy proteins.

 

The program's success is due in large part to the dedication of its volunteers, who sort, pack, and distribute the weekly bags. Many of these volunteers are seniors themselves, who find meaning and purpose in giving back to their community. The program also relies on the generosity of individual and corporate donors, who contribute funds, food, and other resources to support its mission.

 

The Mercy Brown Bag Program has received widespread recognition for its innovative approach to addressing food insecurity. But perhaps the greatest testament to its success is the gratitude of the program's clients. For many seniors the weekly grocery bag is a lifeline that provides nourishment, companionship, and hope.