California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross was recognized today by the California Association of Food Banks as a 2026 Anti-Hunger Champion during the organization’s Food ACCESS Conference luncheon in Sacramento.
Secretary Ross received the Anti-Hunger Champion Award — Administrator Award at the 2026 Food ACCESS Conference, honoring her leadership and ongoing commitment to improving food access and supporting Californians experiencing food insecurity.
Hosted biennially by the California Association of Food Banks, Food ACCESS brings together advocates, food bankers, policymakers, philanthropists, and community leaders from across California and the nation to address the hunger epidemic and advance solutions for a hunger-free California.
This year’s conference, held May 18–19 at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento, features interactive workshops, discussion groups, plenary sessions, networking opportunities, and Capitol Action Day activities focused on expanding food access and addressing the root causes of hunger.
In her remarks, Secretary Ross emphasized the importance of continued collaboration among state agencies, food banks, farmers, and community partners to ensure all Californians have access to nutritious food. Secretary Ross also reflected on longstanding partnerships between California agriculture and food banks, highlighting efforts to “turn excess into access” by connecting surplus healthy food with Californians in need. She also emphasized continued investments in resilient local food systems, farm-to-family programs, and community food infrastructure across the state.
Video:
Watch the remarks by Secretary Ross