The Holidays Can Be Stressful for Many Families. The Food Bank is Here to Help.

The Holidays Can Be Stressful for Many Families. The Food Bank is Here to Help.

With a father of three out of a job, the holidays may be stressful. The Food Bank and its partner agencies can provide assistance.

Life is full of surprises. While some may be good and welcome, others may not be so great and can bring on a lot more stress. 

Losing one’s job may come as a surprise to many, and it’s an unfortunate surprise that comes with a lot of added stress, especially when there are young children involved. According to a recent study by the RAPID- California Voices Project, 56% of families with young children are struggling with food insecurity. 

Julio is the father of three young children, including a newborn and a child with special needs. When we met Julio, he mentioned he had recently lost his job and was struggling to put food on the table. The stressors were clear, but Julio maintained a positive and gracious attitude despite his struggles. 

Julio attends the Sowing Seeds food distribution in Pomona, an LA Regional Food Bank partner agency. Here, Julio and his family are greeted with a smile that puts their worries at ease knowing they’ll put nutritious food on the table. Additionally, Julio and his family were at the partner agency’s holiday distribution, where Santa Claus was present to give young children a small toy and a smile.

While Julio and his family’s situation may seem rough, his optimism about the road ahead is a true representation of the holiday spirit, and is contagious to all those around him. While the family may not have a lot to give, he inspires his children to give when they can, even if it means giving someone else a smile.

If you or someone you know may need food assistance this holiday season, or year-round, please visit our Pantry Locator to find the closest partner agency.

Join the fight against hunger!

If you are in a position to do so, consider donating to the Food Bank and supporting our programs.

More Stories from the LA Regional Food Bank

From Receiving Help to Giving Back: Bryan’s Journey at the North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry

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.

Why Does Food Insecurity Persist in Los Angeles County?

Why do so many individuals struggle to put food on the table? Learn what food insecurity is, what drives it, and how the Food Bank can help.

Finding Support and Dignity at North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry

On a Friday morning, Anna arrived at North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry for the first time. Learn about her experience at the Food Bank partner agency.

One Birthday, 4,000 Meals: How Keturah Reed Turned Her 42nd Into a Fundraiser for the Food Bank

Keturah Reed turned her 42nd birthday into 4,000 meals for neighbors in need. Learn how to start your own Team WeFeedLA fundraiser.

Stay Connected

Sign up for the latest in our fight against hunger.