San Diego is known for its abundance of fresh, locally caught seafood, but not everyone in the community has equal access to it. Marcus Twilegar, the chef and owner of Craft Catering and a South Bay native, understands this disparity all too well. In low-income areas, the cost of seafood can be prohibitive, with prices as high as $19 per pound. Recognizing this issue, Twilegar collaborated with Peter Halmay, president of San Diego Fishermen’s Working Group, to create Fish to Families.
When the pandemic disrupted life and food supply chains, Halmay saw an opportunity to redirect excess seafood to people facing food insecurity. With funding from grants and donations, Fish to Families was established. Feeding San Diego estimates that over 350,000 people in San Diego are food insecure, and Fish to Families aims to address this issue by providing nutritious meals to families and supporting local fishermen during pandemic shutdowns. The program has also evolved to include a training program for chefs, fostering relationships between fishermen and culinary professionals.
Twilegar shares that Fish to Families has prepared approximately 19,000 pounds of fish over the years. However, the program is currently facing challenges due to donor fatigue. A recent grant from the Parker Foundation has provided temporary support, but ongoing donations are crucial for the program’s sustainability. A GoFundMe page has been set up to allow individuals to contribute and help keep Fish to Families running.
The ultimate goal of Fish to Families is to create a financially sustainable model that benefits everyone involved. By supporting the program, individuals can make a positive impact on the community and help ensure that families in need have access to fresh, locally caught seafood. Twilegar emphasizes the importance of collective support, stating that „we’re all helping each other“ through initiatives like Fish to Families.
In other culinary news in San Diego, Shabu-Works is set to open a second location in San Marcos this September. The all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu concept allows guests to customize their hot pot experience with a variety of broths and protein options. Additionally, Pepper Lunch, a popular fast-casual chain, is planning to expand into North County with multiple locations by early 2025, offering affordable dining options with their „20 minutes for under $20“ concept.
As the San Diego food scene continues to evolve, new establishments like Houston TX Hot Chicken and Pad Thai Stand are making waves with their unique offerings. Events like Sunday Jazz Brunch at Sea & Sky and trivia nights at Twisted Horn Mead & Cider provide opportunities for residents to explore different culinary experiences in the city. For those with news or stories about San Diego’s food scene, pitches can be sent to the email address provided.
Overall, initiatives like Fish to Families highlight the importance of community support in ensuring that everyone has access to fresh, nutritious food. By coming together to support programs that address food insecurity and promote local seafood, individuals can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
