Contrary to popular belief, the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank’s reach extends beyond the City of LA. Covering all of LA County, the Food Bank works with other nonprofit organizations, or partner agencies, to provide food assistance to neighbors in need, from Lancaster to Long Beach.
Among those agencies is the Grace Resource Center in Lancaster. Here, individuals like Rafaela and Eliud get crucial food items that help their families put food on the table.
For Rafaela, the food distributions at Grace Resources mean more than just a bag of groceries. They represent stability, relief, and the chance to help others.
“I came to get food here because it helps us a lot,” Rafaela shared. “I also pick up food for someone else because she can’t drive. She has a disabled daughter, so I help her too.”
With the rising cost of everyday necessities, fresh food can be hard to afford. Rafaela appreciates the healthy options provided, especially the fresh vegetables, fruits, salmon, and eggs, which help her maintain a balanced diet.
“It helps us because everything’s so expensive,” she explained. “We can’t afford a lot of things like we used to. Eggs are very expensive, so getting them here helps a lot.”
Eliud attends the same food distribution to provide for her family.
“I come here to get food for my family,” Eliud said. “Sometimes you do it out of necessity—to move your family forward.”
Like many individuals in the Antelope Valley, Eliud faces the challenge of balancing rent and finding steady work. Despite those struggles, she remains positive and grateful.