Healthy Food For Neighbors in Need

Food insecurity and access to basic needs

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

Food insecurity has risen dramatically since the pandemic hit in 2020. Interfaith Food Center (IFC) has witnessed first hand the increase in demand for food, and the continued rise in need of our services. At the height of the pandemic in 2020, while there was still so much uncertainty, and store shelves were empty, IFC saw a surge in demand - serving over 1,100 families in one month, up from 858 families pre-pandemic. As the pandemic continued, more was understood about Covid-19, and vaccines became available, IFC saw a slight drop off in demand in 2021 and 2022. In 2023, IFC began seeing an uptick in demand again, and currently we have over 1,200 families a month receiving food - and demand continues to increase.

IFC provides groceries to low-income families, free of charge, on a weekly basis. Pre-pandemic, IFC used a member-choice distribution model. In this model, members were given information on the nutritional value of foods available and allowed to choose some of their food, empowering them to make healthy decisions. When the pandemic hit, we had to switch to a drive-through distribution overnight. Due to the surge in demand, loss of volunteers, and uncertainty about Covid-19, our distribution became an emergency food solution.
As we transitioned to our "new normal," we considered returning to our member-choice model but realized we needed member input on the best and most efficient distribution method. A Sociology Research class at our partner institution, Whittier College, conducted a survey to help us understand our members' needs. Based on what we've learned, members prefer the drive-through concept as a permanent method of receiving their food. We will be implementing some member choices in the food distribution and incorporating nutritional information for our members.
We want to keep helping our community in the best way possible. This approach ensures we listen to what our members want and need, demonstrating our dedication to serving the community and meeting the high demand effectively. While drive-through food distribution may not be new, IFC strives to improve the model by incorporating choice, with an emphasis on nutrition, while keeping up with increasing demand.

If our work is successful, Los Angeles County will experience several positive changes:
Improved Food Security: More families will have reliable access to nutritious food, reducing hunger and food insecurity across the county.
Healthier Communities: With access to a consistent supply of nutritious food, residents will enjoy better overall health and wellness.
Stronger Community Support Systems: By listening to and addressing the specific needs of our members, we will build stronger, more resilient community networks.
Enhanced Efficiency in Food Distribution: Our drive-through model will ensure a streamlined, efficient distribution process that can serve more families quickly and safely.
Overall, Los Angeles County will be a more supportive, healthier, and better-connected community, where residents' needs are met with compassion and efficiency.

IFC measures its impact through a specialized database designed specifically for our food distribution program (The Grocery Program). This database allows us to track the number of households and individuals supported, and usage of, The Grocery Program. Additionally, IFC conducts interviews with members during their yearly registration for The Grocery Program. During these interviews, members share how much the food center helps them and how it enables them to pay other bills like rent and utilities. This feedback provides direct evidence that our program is effectively addressing the problem of food insecurity and financial strain among low-income families.