COVID-19 Update: All onsite programs are temporarily suspended, except for food distribution.
FOODBANK
MEND’s Foodbank has long been a point of entry for a majority of clients. Those utilizing the food bank often include families with children struggling to make ends meet, low-income seniors and people who are homeless who—because of few options—sometimes rely on foraging to survive. As MEND’s 2019 Humanitarian Award honoree, Dr. LaVonna Blair Lewis put it, “Food is not discretionary.” Equitable access to nutritious food supports a healthy life, and a healthy life supports better overall outcomes.”
In addition to direct services at MEND’s facility in Pacoima, MEND’s Emergency Foodbank distributes food to dozens of community and faith-based organizations who operate food pantries that touch the lives of thousands of people throughout LA County. In 2020, the Foodbank benefited individuals and families through 126,584 encounters. By distributing more than 2.5 million pounds of food, the Foodbank empowered families throughout LA County to consume 2,142,140 healthy meals in 2020.
2,142,140
Healthy Meals
2.5 MILLION
Pounds of food
126,584
People Benefited
Emergency Food Pantry
Direct distribution of food plus a hot meal prepared in our kitchen.
Frequency: Clients may come weekly based on need
Service Days during (COVID): Tuesdays, Fridays and some Saturdays
Target Population
Individuals and families who are homeless, in transitional housing, at-risk of homelessness or financially vulnerable due to COVID-19.
Food Bank
Distribution to satellite (TFAP) and outreach (general) community partners.
Service Days: Tuesdays - Fridays and alternating Saturdays
Target Population
Low-income individuals and families served by partner organizations.
Buen Provecho
Distribution of fresh fruits and vegetables to MEND clients through a “Farmers Market” model. Goal is to give clients more choice and maximize the amount of produce distributed and minimize the amount being recycled.
Frequency: Once a week
Target Population
Individuals and families who are homeless, in transitional housing, at-risk of homelessness or financially vulnerable due to COVID-19.
MEND STORIES
Rosa
She came to the Family Support Program after she had increased her visits to the Foodbank. In meeting with Rosa and her family, we learned that her husband, the sole provider of the family, had tragically passed away. Rosa felt lost and didn’t know how to support her 3 children. We helped her create a plan to regain control, and she prioritized getting a job to support her family.
She was nervous to start her job search but we showed her the ropes and were there with guidance and encouragement whenever she needed it. Rosa has since found a job, and she loves it! Because of the increased income, Rosa no longer needs to visit the MEND Foodbank. She is especially proud about this. “This is the first time in a long time that my family hasn’t needed the MEND Foodbank,” she says, beaming. We too are proud of her accomplishment.
Karla
Karla and her young family are one of many San Fernando Valley families that have relied on MEND for food assistance in the last year. She never has to worry about keeping her family fed thanks to the fresh produce and essentials that she receives from the food bank.
The stress of paying rent and utilities remains a constant, and sometimes keeps Karla up at night, which makes her thankful not to worry about food. She shares, “I have no idea what I would have done if MEND did not exist. I am so grateful for MEND and the people who support MEND.”