At Food & Friends, listening is an act of care. Each year, our client and volunteer surveys provide invaluable insight into how our community experiences our work—and how, together, we can deliver not just meals, but dignity, connection, and hope. The results from our 2025 surveys tell a powerful story of impact made possible by neighbors helping neighbors.
Client Experience: Nourishment That Supports Health and Stability
In 2025, 92% of clients reported being very satisfied or satisfied with Food & Friends overall. Clients consistently rated the taste, quality, and variety of meals highly, with 90% expressing satisfaction with the food they receive. New survey questions showed that 94% find meal labels clear and helpful, and 84% said Food & Friends helps them make healthy food choices they enjoy.
Beyond satisfaction, clients reported meaningful health outcomes. 90% said Food & Friends helps improve their health, and 85% said it improves their quality of life. Clients also reported a stronger ability to follow doctors’ orders, maintain a healthy weight, and manage chronic conditions, highlighting the vital role of medically tailored meals.
Food & Friends also eases financial and emotional strain. 76% said our services improved their ability to afford other necessities, and 41% said Food & Friends is their only source of food. One client shared, “Food & Friends over time has sent me luxury food that I would not otherwise buy. Eggs, blueberries, homemade snack cakes, good quality beef and ground turkey.”
Nutrition Services: Expert Guidance for Healthy, Enjoyable Eating
Nutrition services remain a cornerstone of client support. In 2025, 87% of clients who worked with a Food & Friends dietitian were very satisfied or satisfied, including 100% of clients with HIV/AIDS and 91% of clients with diabetes. Most interactions occurred by phone, with others connecting via email, text, or online webinars. Nearly half of clients accessed a nutrition webinar or video, with 87% reporting a positive experience.
Clients reported concrete nutrition outcomes: 77% said working with a dietitian helps them manage medical conditions, 80% said it helps them make healthy food choices they enjoy, and 69% said it helps them set food goals that improve how they feel. Many clients also shared changes they’ve made in their diets, such as eating more fruits and vegetables, reducing fried foods, and introducing healthy snacks throughout the day. As one client reflected, “I am thankful for all the help with planning and making different meals that are helpful and healthy.”
Volunteer Experience: Powering Impact Through Community
This work is made possible by an extraordinary volunteer community. Volunteers come from all walks of life, including students, retirees, and working professionals, many serving for years. 70% help prepare and package meals, while nearly 39% deliver food directly to clients’ doors.
Survey results highlight a strong sense of purpose and connection. Nearly all volunteers said they understand their tasks, feel welcomed and appreciated, and believe their contributions are meaningful. Delivery volunteers reported feeling safe, informed, and supported. One shared, “It’s a wonderful volunteer experience. The work feels meaningful, and our contributions seem important. Each shift is organized, and expectations are clear.”
This sense of belonging is why Food & Friends was once again named Best Place to Volunteer. Their generosity of time, talent, and heart transforms our kitchen into a community hub and deliveries into moments of human connection.
Looking ahead to 2026, Food & Friends plans to deliver 2 million medically tailored meals and serve 5,800 neighbors living with life-challenging illnesses, including dependents and caregivers. Meeting that need will require the continued strength of our community. Learn more about volunteering at https://foodandfriends.org/volunteer/volunteer-with-us/. Together, we can continue showing up for our neighbors, one meal at a time.
Food & Friends is a nonprofit that relies on donations to support our mission. Donate now.