A single parent’s weekly trip for groceries reveals the community, connection, and generosity behind every food distribution at africActive, a Food Bank partner agency.

For Trisha, a single parent in Los Angeles, the weekly trip to her local food distribution site isn’t just about groceries. It’s about community, dignity, and knowing that when times get hard, someone has her back.

Trisha picks up food through africActive, a proud Los Angeles Regional Food Bank partner agency, that distributes fresh groceries to families across the region. Like so many of the neighbors she sees each week, she relies on this distribution to keep her family fed, and she’s quick to point out that the need in her community is real and widespread.

“If it wasn’t for this, the community would starve, really,” she says. “I’m very grateful that I have this out here, where I can come get food.”

That spirit of care doesn’t stop after the distribution. Trisha shares what she receives with members of her church, passing along food to members who aren’t able to make the trip themselves. It’s a reminder that when the Food Bank supports one individual, the impact often ripples out to dozens more.

While many may be ashamed or scared to ask for food assistance, Trisha has a few words of motivation for them.

“Don’t be ashamed,” she says. “You’re not alone.”

With the cost of living continuing to strain household budgets across Los Angeles County, more families than ever are turning to food assistance to make ends meet, including working parents, seniors, and people who never expected to need help. Trisha’s message cuts through the stigma that can keep people from walking through the door: everybody needs food, and asking for help is nothing to be embarrassed about.

AfricActive is just one of the hundreds of partner agencies working alongside the Food Bank to fight hunger throughout the County. If you are interested in making a positive difference in your community, consider donating to the Food Bank or volunteering. Together, We Feed LA.