Dear Friends,
The very last thing people should worry about, on top of increasing living costs, is rationing food for meals — but, it looks like that is our new reality. Since November 1st, essential benefits like SNAP/CalFresh and WIC have been on hold due to the government shutdown.
While there is ongoing litigation that might make some funds available in the future, the outcome is still far from certain. And in the meanwhile, working class families are already feeling the impacts of this uncertainty.
The Los Angeles community is stepping up to meet this moment. Whether you know of someone in need or are in need yourself, we urge you to share these resources from our members, partners, and government agencies widely.
The very last thing people should worry about, on top of increasing living costs, is rationing food for meals — but, it looks like that is our new reality. Since November 1st, essential benefits like SNAP/CalFresh and WIC have been on hold due to the government shutdown.
While there is ongoing litigation that might make some funds available in the future, the outcome is still far from certain. And in the meanwhile, working class families are already feeling the impacts of this uncertainty.
The Los Angeles community is stepping up to meet this moment. Whether you know of someone in need or are in need yourself, we urge you to share these resources from our members, partners, and government agencies widely.
Food Drives & Distribution Centers Near You
- LA Regional Food Bank Pantry Locator or call 2–1–1 to speak to someone who can help find a food pantry or help identify other available resources.
- Monthly Food Distribution Centers available in Los Angeles County
- City of LA Family Source Centers list of distribution centers. They serve ALL Angelenos regardless of immigration status.
- YMCA FeedLA Produce Distribution Centers
- Free hot food and grocery giveaways in Long Beach – available in English, Spanish, Khmer, Tagalog
- Asian Youth Center’s Evening Food Drive on Wednesday, November 19 from 4pm – 7pm at 401 South Mission Drive, San Gabriel, CA 91776
- Koreatown Youth+ Community Center’s Food Drive on Friday, November 21 and Friday, December 21 from 10am – 11am at the KYCC Menlo Family Center. Registration begins at 9am.
For Youth, Seniors, and Expecting Mothers
- Free food to youth, teens, and seniors at LA County parks
- LAUSD schools with the supper meal program for students age 1-18. Call the Family Hotline, available 24/7, at (213) 443-1300 for additional assistance.
- Seniors 60+ may be eligible for a free meal at local senior centers: Call 1 (800) 510-2020 for more information or visit the Older Californians Nutrition Program.
- Those who are pregnant or postpartum may be eligible for WIC benefits. To apply, visit: startwic.org or text “APPLY” to 91997.
Free Food from AAPI Businesses
- Kreung Kitchen, a Cambodian pop-up, is giving away babaw mwan, warm chicken rice porridge, every Sunday from 2-5 p.m. at Culver City’s Bar & Garden
- Bé Ù Kitchen, a Vietnamese restaurant in East Hollywood, is offering ongoing “pay what you can” menu items.
Donate and Volunteer
While the federal government fails to act, we can take collective and local action to directly support Angeleno families. Let’s demonstrate our solidarity as good neighbors, check in on each other, and move with compassion and patience as this holiday season is brutal for many.