Dolphin Food Market Expands Support Through Summer Months

Fullerton School District is expanding support for families this summer by keeping its Dolphin Food Market open during the school break, providing continued access to nutritious food and essential resources while school is out of session.

Located at Pacific Drive Elementary School, the community food pantry serves approximately 125-140 families, or between 450-500 individuals, each week and is open to anyone in need, regardless of whether they have children enrolled in Fullerton School District schools. 

Since opening in 2019, the food pantry has become a vital community resource, stocked weekly through an exclusive partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County and offering fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, bread, cereal and other pantry staples.

The Dolphin Food Market is staffed and stocked by dedicated parent volunteers who help create a welcoming environment for families seeking support. This summer, Community Liaisons Juan Fonseca and Grace Cortez, alongside Community Schools Program Specialist Jenny Saul, are helping oversee operations and connect families with available resources.

“Access to healthy food shouldn’t stop when school is out for the summer,” Fonseca said. “By keeping the Dolphin Food Market open, we're able to continue supporting families, reduce food insecurity and ensure our community knows there is a place they can turn for help when they need it.”

The pantry is open by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 to 11 a.m. through July 30. Families may visit once per week by calling or texting (657) 790-2578 or (657) 790-2579 to schedule an appointment.

The expanded summer schedule reflects Fullerton School District’s commitment to supporting the well-being of students and families beyond the classroom. By providing reliable access to healthy food and community resources year-round, the District helps ensure children are prepared to learn, grow and thrive.