Price crisis: Eggs given away for free in California and here’s how to get them

With the price of eggs reaching historic heights, some consumers have found themselves unable to afford one of the basic food cupboard staples.

The price of eggs at a record high

The price of one dozen Grade A eggs has risen 22.03% since the start of 2025 and 65 percent over the past year and residents in California are feeling the pinch. Production costs have traditionally been higher in the west coast state (water, the price of grain, heating bills) but on top of that, the industry has been severely impacted by the avian flu outbreak which has left a shortage of egg-laying hens. Over 150 million infected birds have been slaughtered across all 50 states and Puerto Rico, which is about 39% of the total stock.

Eggs have never been so expensive, reaching an all time high of $7.09 per dozen in some states in January 2025 with the average price just hovering under $6.

In response, a number of non-profit community organizations have set up charitable initiatives with the aim of helping those most in need. Live Again Fresno in conjunction with Save the Children will conduct free distributions of food boxes for low-income families, with the next event scheduled for Tuesday.

The Egg Drive initiative has been giving out free egg cartons to low-income families in Fresno, California since the start of the month. The initiative’s goal not only to provide immediate relief but also to raise awareness about the economic struggles many households face due to inflation and other factors driving up the cost of essential goods.

Where will eggs be distributed in Fresno this month?

The next egg distribution is scheduled for Tuesday March 18 at the Promesa Commons complex, 1101 North Parkway Drive, Fresno, California. The event will start at 2:30 p.m. and run until 5 p.m. EST or until stocks last, with a total of 200 food boxes available.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as supplies will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis, and quantities are limited. The distribution is intended for low-income families. No documentation or proof of income is required to receive the parcels, although you may be asked to give your first and last names.

Similar initiatives will be hosted in other cities. Sanger, Mendota, Five Points, Biola and Pinedale will also host similar events throughout March and April. Food boxes will include essential staples such as rice, beans, vegetables, and milk, along with information about social assistance programs for those in need of extra support. More information can be found on the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission website.

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