The holidays are a time for gathering around the table with loved ones. Whether someone celebrates Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or another cherished tradition, food is often at the center of it all.
For many of our neighbors in Los Angeles County, though, a full table is hard to come by. Rising costs, benefit disruptions, and unexpected hardships mean that over one million individuals in the County face food insecurity. The holidays can make that struggle feel even heavier.
The good news is that you can help, and there are more ways to do it than you might think. The following are ways to support the Food Bank this season and beyond.
While food donations are appreciated, for every dollar donated, approximately $0.96 goes directly to supporting Food Bank programs, meaning each dollar goes a long way. Financial donations help us source fresh produce, lean proteins, and healthy staples that don’t always come through in donations. Make a one-time donation>
Hunger doesn’t end when the decorations come down. Many families skip meals to manage costs year-round. Monthly giving gives the Food Bank dependable resources to plan ahead and keep nutritious food moving into the community in every season. Monthly donors also receive early access to events and opportunities. It’s one of the most efficient ways to give. Become a monthly donor>
Many companies match their employees’ charitable donations, which can double the impact in the community. Some employers also offer paid volunteer days, so you can give your time during the workday. A quick check with your HR team could turn a $50 gift into $100 for neighbors in need. Find out if your employer matches gifts>
A Team #WeFeedLA fundraiser lets you invite family, friends, coworkers, classmates, or neighbors to give together. Supporters have turned birthdays, office competitions, and holiday gatherings into thousands of meals. Setting one up takes just a few minutes, and every dollar raised supports our vision that no one goes hungry in LA County. Start your fundraiser today>
RELATED: One Birthday, 4,000 Meals: How Keturah Reed Turned Her 42nd Into a Fundraiser for the Food Bank
Volunteers are the heart of the Food Bank. They sort, pack, and distribute food, and the work is hands-on and rewarding. A few hours of your time helps feed those who seek food assistance from the Food Bank. Volunteering is a great holiday activity for families, friends, and coworkers alike. Learn more about volunteering at the Food Bank or its partner agencies>
RELATED: Meet Maria: The Food Bank Volunteer Lifting Up Her Community With a Smile
If you’re thinking about year-end giving, the following options can be both generous and tax-smart. Talk with your financial or tax advisor to find the best fit for your situation.
This holiday season, your generosity can put food on the table for a family in need. Whether you give, volunteer, fundraise, or simply share the Food Bank mission, you’re helping us fight food insecurity throughout Los Angeles County. Together, WeFeedLA.