Caring for a daughter with autism and a senior mother hasn’t been easy for Cheryl. Fortunately, she has the Food Bank.

Food insecurity doesn’t discriminate. It affects families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, caregivers, full-time workers, the unemployed, veterans, and neighbors from every walk of life and financial status. The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and its network of partner agencies see the impact of food insecurity through its neighbors who line up weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly to receive food assistance. 

Cheryl is among the hundreds of people receiving food assistance from Grace Resources, a trusted Food Bank partner agency in Lancaster, Calif. 

The Reality for Many LA County Families

For Cheryl, visiting Grace Resources is not an option—it’s a necessity. After undergoing two surgeries this year, she has been relying on disability benefits that don’t stretch far enough, particularly with rising food prices. On top of managing her own health and diabetes, she cares for both her autistic daughter and her senior mother, each with unique nutritional needs.

Fresh fruit and vegetables are especially important for her daughter, who has food sensitivities and texture-related challenges. For her mother and for herself as a diabetic, maintaining a healthy diet is critical—and expensive.

“Places like food pantries are so pivotal to communities that are underfunded, underdeveloped… It really does help bring forth a sense of community and awareness of hunger,” Cheryl said.

Food Insecurity Doesn’t Discriminate

Hunger doesn’t affect only a single group. It reaches families, single adults, people experiencing homelessness, veterans, and even people who work full-time and live in a household with multiple incomes, like Cheryl’s.

“You could be working full time… but you’re still struggling. Your full-time job is not covering everything,” she said.

When you support the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, you help sustain a network that lifts families like Cheryl’s during their most challenging moments. Consider donating to the Food Bank today.