As the fall and winter seasons usher in festivities centered around food, it’s important to remember that for the food insecure, this time can serve as a stark reminder of their food insecurity struggles. While many celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and other holidays this time of year, it’s also an opportune time to ensure we don’t forget those less fortunate in our community.

Food is a fundamental human need, yet unfortunately, many in our community struggle to access nutritious meals. An estimated 30% of the people in LA County are experiencing food and nutrition insecurity, marking a six-percentage-point increase from 2022, according to USC Dornsife.  

During the holidays and at all times, it’s our vision that no one goes hungry in LA County.

Thankfully, with the collaboration of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and our partner agency network of 600 other nonprofits across LA County, we all have the chance to make a meaningful difference as hunger persists throughout the year. 

Here are some simple yet effective ways to support those facing hunger in our communities.

1. Donate to Your Local Food Bank: While cleaning out your pantry and donating non-expired items is admirable, cash donations can have a more significant impact, enabling food banks to distribute healthier options. Thanks to significant contributions from farmers, growers, wholesalers and volunteers, a small cash donation can make a substantial difference.
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2. Join the Monthly Giving Program: Monthly gifts help the Food Bank plan for consistent distribution within our community all year long and are one of the most efficient ways to give. The benefits of joining our Monthly Giving Program include early access to event tickets and opportunities.
3. Check Employer Support: Many companies match their employees’ donations as a great way to show them they also care about the causes they believe in while making double the impact in the community. Additionally, by having your donation to the Food Bank matched by your company, you’re helping nourish the more than 2 million individuals who may need to know where their next meal is coming from.
4. Donate Stock, Cars or Cryptocurrency: Discover innovative methods of contributing, like considering tax-efficient options such as donating stock, contributing old vehicles or using cryptocurrency to support the Food Bank’s hunger-relief initiatives.
5. Start a Fundraiser: If your contribution is limited, consider starting a Team #WeFeedLA fundraiser. Energize those around you, including your friends, family, colleagues and others, to raise funds and make an immediate impact in your community.
6. Volunteer at the Food Bank: Volunteers play a vital role, with nearly 15,000 individuals offering their time each year. Your support in sorting, gleaning, packaging and distributing food is invaluable.

The Power of Volunteers and Donors: Fueling the Impact of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank > 

7. Be a hunger-relief advocate: Another effective way to support the Food Bank is to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube and subscribe to our e-communications newsletter.

The first step in the fight against hunger is awareness, and if you can help us spread the word about the collective work of the Food Bank and our community partners, we can get closer to bridging the hunger gap. Together, #WeFeedLA.