Volunteers Make a Difference Not Just During the Holiday Season

Alma Hall has been a volunteer at Sowing Seeds for over 15 years, making a difference at every food distribution.

Volunteers have the power to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors.

Every year, tens of thousands of individuals volunteer at one of the two Los Angeles Regional Food Bank warehouses for three hours. In just three hours, volunteers glean, sort, and pack nutritious food for the hundreds of thousands of neighbors who rely on the Food Bank to put food on their tables.

Food may be distributed directly from the Food Bank or indirectly through its Partner Agency Network of hundreds of organizations throughout LA County. Because these organizations are nonprofit, many rely on community members to help distribute food to their neighbors.

Sowing Seeds for Life in Pomona is among those partner agencies that distribute food on behalf of the Food Bank. Hundreds of individuals choose to volunteer here, always offering a conversation and a friendly smile.

Alma Hall has been volunteering at Sowing Seeds for over 15 years. Before volunteering, Hall was a food recipient, so she’s familiar with going through hard times. So when someone drives up to the Sowing Seeds distribution, she knows what that person is going through, so she meets everyone with dignity, respect, a lending ear and a smile.

“At our bimonthly distribution, we are serving anywhere from 300 to 500 families,” Hall said. “Before I was a volunteer, I was in this line waiting for food. I know what it’s like to be in need of help.”

Alma’s journey from a food recipient to a dedicated volunteer is a testament to the transformative power of collective compassion. She understands the struggles many neighbors face because she has experienced food insecurity there herself. Her commitment to giving back is rooted in a deep understanding of the impact of a simple act of kindness.

“The happiness you see on peoples’ faces when you give them food is why I do this. I can go home and know I did something good today. Their smiles make me come back and continue to support them.”

Alma’s words echo the sentiment of countless volunteers and donors like you who find purpose and fulfillment in helping others. Her story is an important reminder that each and every meal we provide with your generous help is more than sustenance; it’s a lifeline for those grappling with the harsh realities of empty stomachs and impossible financial choices.

Your sustained commitment is absolutely vital to our ongoing efforts to provide nourishment, hope, and dignity to our neighbors. Thank you.