Frequently Asked Questions
Interfaith Food Ministry – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General
What is Interfaith Food Ministry (IFM)?
IFM fights food insecurity in Nevada County, providing nutritious supplemental groceries to thousands. With volunteers, donors, and partners, we distribute almost two million pounds of food annually, feeding families and fueling hope. Recognized for our impact, we were voted Best Non-Profit of Nevada County by our community!
Where is IFM located?
440 Henderson Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945
What are your distribution days and hours?
IFM is open every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, (Reservations only 10a-11a, first come first served 11a-1p and Saturday from 10am until 1pm (no reservations required).
This schedule may change on occasion to accommodate special holidays.
Schedule change information will be posted in advance so that you may reschedule your visit.
You may pick up your food once EVERY OTHER week. You can choose between any of the 4 distribution days (M, W, F, or Sa) and that counts as your visit for that week.
Getting Food Assistance
Who is eligible to receive food from IFM?
Anyone living in Nevada County who needs food assistance.
What do I need to bring?
A photo i.d. and proof of Nevada County residency (for example a bill, bank statement, or rental lease).
If you don’t have a residence, you’re still eligible, just let us know at check-in.
You also must agree to abide by our “Good Neighbor Requirements.”
How often can I receive food?
You may pick up your food once EVERY OTHER week. You can choose between any of the 4 distribution days (M, W, F, or Sa) and that counts as your visit for that week.
How do I get started?
Visit our How To Receive Help page for step-by-step instructions and reservation options.
What kinds of food will I receive?
We provide a variety of fresh produce, dairy, pantry staples, baked goods, and proteins when available. Offerings vary based on supply, donations, and season.
Donations & Supporting IFM
How can I donate food?
Food donations can be dropped off during operating hours. High-need items often include canned proteins, peanut butter, cereal, and cooking staples.
The best days and times to donate are: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 7am - 9am, 1:30pm - 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday 7am - 11am (preferred), Saturday 8am - 9am, 3pm - 4pm
Do you accept monetary donations?
Yes! Financial donations help us purchase food in bulk, keep operations running, and support local families. Donations can be made online, by mail, or in person. You can donate easily online on our donation page.
You can also mail or drop off in person at 440 Henderson St. Grass Valley, CA 95945
IFM has earned Charity Navigator’s highest 4-Star rating with a 100% score for accountability, community, and leadership which means you can give with confidence.
Can I host a food drive?
Absolutely! We welcome community food drives. Contact our team for guidance, materials, and promotional support.
Are my donations tax-deductible?
Yes, IFM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We provide donation receipts upon request.
Volunteering
How can I volunteer?
IFM relies on hundreds of volunteers to help with distribution, packing, food pickups, and more. The easiest way to start is by coming into IFM! We welcome volunteers any time after 7am on distribution days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday) and on Tuesdays and Thursdays we have our packing and sorting crew here from 7am-11am.
We have a variety of volunteer roles and are happy to find one that works best for you!
Do you need volunteers year-round?
Yes! While holidays are our busiest months, we need volunteers throughout the entire year.
Can groups volunteer?
Yes, we welcome service groups, clubs, schools, and businesses. Contact us in advance to coordinate.
Holiday Distributions
Do you give out special holiday food?
Yes, we offer holiday distributions for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Contents vary based on supply and budget. Check our website or social media for the most up-to-date details.
Why aren’t you offering meat for Christmas this year?
Due to rising food costs and budget constraints, we are unable to provide meat items for Christmas. We know this is disappointing and it was a hard choice for us to make. We remain committed to offering festive sides and ingredients so families can enjoy a special meal.
Other Questions
I emailed IFM. When will I get a response?
We have a very small staff and do our best to respond as quickly as possible. Please be patient with us! For time-sensitive client needs, please call during distribution hours.
How is IFM funded?
Through generous community donations, grants, fundraisers, and partnerships with local nonprofits and businesses.
Can IFM deliver food?
We offer limited home delivery for homebound clients. Contact us to see if you qualify.
General
What is Interfaith Food Ministry (IFM)?
IFM fights food insecurity in Nevada County, providing nutritious supplemental groceries to thousands. With volunteers, donors, and partners, we distribute almost two million pounds of food annually, feeding families and fueling hope. Recognized for our impact, we were voted Best Non-Profit of Nevada County by our community!
Where is IFM located?
440 Henderson Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945
What are your distribution days and hours?
IFM is open every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, (Reservations only 10a-11a, first come first served 11a-1p and Saturday from 10am until 1pm (no reservations required).
This schedule may change on occasion to accommodate special holidays.
Schedule change information will be posted in advance so that you may reschedule your visit.
You may pick up your food once EVERY OTHER week. You can choose between any of the 4 distribution days (M, W, F, or Sa) and that counts as your visit for that week.
Getting Food Assistance
Who is eligible to receive food from IFM?
Anyone living in Nevada County who needs food assistance.
What do I need to bring?
A photo i.d. and proof of Nevada County residency (for example a bill, bank statement, or rental lease).
If you don’t have a residence, you’re still eligible, just let us know at check-in.
You also must agree to abide by our “Good Neighbor Requirements.”
How often can I receive food?
You may pick up your food once EVERY OTHER week. You can choose between any of the 4 distribution days (M, W, F, or Sa) and that counts as your visit for that week.
How do I get started?
Visit our How To Receive Help page for step-by-step instructions and reservation options.
What kinds of food will I receive?
We provide a variety of fresh produce, dairy, pantry staples, baked goods, and proteins when available. Offerings vary based on supply, donations, and season.
Donations & Supporting IFM
How can I donate food?
Food donations can be dropped off during operating hours. High-need items often include canned proteins, peanut butter, cereal, and cooking staples.
The best days and times to donate are: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 7am - 9am, 1:30pm - 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday 7am - 11am (preferred), Saturday 8am - 9am, 3pm - 4pm
Do you accept monetary donations?
Yes! Financial donations help us purchase food in bulk, keep operations running, and support local families. Donations can be made online, by mail, or in person. You can donate easily online on our donation page.
You can also mail or drop off in person at 440 Henderson St. Grass Valley, CA 95945
IFM has earned Charity Navigator’s highest 4-Star rating with a 100% score for accountability, community, and leadership which means you can give with confidence.
Can I host a food drive?
Absolutely! We welcome community food drives. Contact our team for guidance, materials, and promotional support.
Are my donations tax-deductible?
Yes, IFM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We provide donation receipts upon request.
Volunteering
How can I volunteer?
IFM relies on hundreds of volunteers to help with distribution, packing, food pickups, and more. The easiest way to start is by coming into IFM! We welcome volunteers any time after 7am on distribution days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday) and on Tuesdays and Thursdays we have our packing and sorting crew here from 7am-11am.
We have a variety of volunteer roles and are happy to find one that works best for you!
Do you need volunteers year-round?
Yes! While holidays are our busiest months, we need volunteers throughout the entire year.
Can groups volunteer?
Yes, we welcome service groups, clubs, schools, and businesses. Contact us in advance to coordinate.
Holiday Distributions
Do you give out special holiday food?
Yes, we offer holiday distributions for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Contents vary based on supply and budget. Check our website or social media for the most up-to-date details.
Why aren’t you offering meat for Christmas this year?
Due to rising food costs and budget constraints, we are unable to provide meat items for Christmas. We know this is disappointing and it was a hard choice for us to make. We remain committed to offering festive sides and ingredients so families can enjoy a special meal.
Other Questions
I emailed IFM. When will I get a response?
We have a very small staff and do our best to respond as quickly as possible. Please be patient with us! For time-sensitive client needs, please call during distribution hours.
How is IFM funded?
Through generous community donations, grants, fundraisers, and partnerships with local nonprofits and businesses.
Can IFM deliver food?
We offer limited home delivery for homebound clients. Contact us to see if you qualify.
