The Edible Food Recovery Grant Program for fiscal year 2025–2026 is a recurring annual initiative sponsored by ReGen Monterey and Salinas Valley Recycles. The program is designed to support food recovery organizations, nonprofits, public agencies, and businesses operating within Monterey County, California. The goal is to fund and expand local efforts to divert edible food from landfills and distribute it to those in need, in line with California Senate Bill 1383.
Under SB 1383, California mandates a 75% reduction in landfilled organic waste and requires that 20% of edible food currently disposed of be recovered for human consumption. This grant helps local jurisdictions meet these requirements by enhancing infrastructure and capacity among food recovery groups. Applicants may use funds for eligible expenses such as commercial refrigerators, freezers, materials, and food safety supplies that increase the volume of food recovered and safely distributed.
A total of up to $100,000 is available through this funding opportunity, which is open to eligible applicants who collect, generate, and distribute food for human consumption in Monterey County. Priority will be given to organizations that expand their operational footprint, improve food safety, or help local businesses meet SB 1383 compliance mandates. Past awardees include a network of food pantries and nonprofit organizations supporting underserved populations including farmworkers, low-income families, the elderly, and the unsheltered.
The application window for the 2025–2026 grant cycle opens on August 11, 2025, and closes on October 15, 2025. Grant recipients will be notified after the review process, and successful applicants are required to submit a final report on project outcomes. Projects should be ready to begin shortly after award notification, aligning with the state’s urgent mandate timelines.
Applications can be accessed via the program website, and any questions should be directed to the grant contact person. This annual program aligns with the "Feed People Not Landfills" campaign and reflects a countywide commitment to climate action, food security, and public health.
Use Careit to log food recovery; be specific about equipment needs and quantifiable food recovery results.
