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Valley Center approves 2026 'Food for Fines' program to aid local food pantry

Valley Center City Council · January 7, 2026

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Summary

Council approved a Food for Fines program allowing $5 credit per eligible donated nonperishable item (max $50) to reduce court fines while supporting the Valley Center Food Pantry; staff said the program requires no additional city funding.

The Valley Center City Council voted to approve a 2026 'Food for Fines' program presented by court clerk Katie Crook.

Katie Crook, the court clerk, described the program’s operation and community impact: "We offer the $5 credit for the non perishable food items that can't be dented, rusted, expired," she said, noting donations support the Valley Center Food Pantry and that the program has reduced fines for dozens of defendants in prior years. Staff recommended approval and said accepting items during city business hours imposes no additional cost to the city.

Council moved and seconded the program with specific parameters set at $5 per acceptable item and a $50 maximum credit per participant; the motion carried.

Council members asked why collection did not occur in 2025; Crook said collections were disrupted last year because staff were short‑staffed. The program will proceed in 2026 with staff oversight.