Bryan first visited the North Hollywood food pantry during a difficult time, and now he volunteers there. Read his story and learn how you can get involved.

Bryan didn’t expect to find himself at a food pantry. He and his girlfriend were going through a rough patch when she found a pantry close to their home. They started coming by, week after week, and the support helped them get through.

Today, Bryan is on the other side of the table. He volunteers at the North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry, a partner agency of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, helping neighbors who are where he once was. 

“We started trying to give back because I think it’s really important what they’re doing here,” he says.

Food assistance isn’t always a long-term arrangement. For many neighbors, it’s a bridge that helps them through a rough patch, whether that’s a job disruption, unexpected expenses, rising costs, or an emergency. And when things improve, many, like Bryan, look for ways to pay it forward.

“A lot of people don’t like to speak about it, but a lot of people are struggling more than they would like to say or show,” Bryan said. 

Help May Be Just Around the Corner

Bryan’s story is a reminder that hard times can happen to anyone, and that there’s no shame in reaching out. If you, or someone you know, is struggling with food insecurity, visit the Food Bank’s Pantry Locator to find the nearest food pantry. 

If you are in a position to do so, consider donating to the Food Bank, or becoming a volunteer at one of our distribution centers, or at any of our partner agencies. To learn more, visit the Food Bank’s Volunteer page.