The Covid-19 Pandemic Exacerbated Food Insecurity Across the CA State, Worked To Fight Hunger In 2020

HI INDIA NEWS DESK
CALIFORNIA — Food insecurity has long been an issue in California, and it only grew worse in 2020. The devastating pandemic reversed many of the steps that had been made toward improving access to food, as unemployment skyrocketed and money was tighter than ever.

According to Feeding America, one in nine Californians struggled with hunger in 2016, with one in every seven children suffering. Those numbers grew in 2020, with Imperial County even projected to see a food insecurity rate of 27.4%.

In the face of these challenges, Californians did what they could to make a difference. Whether it was a food pantry in North Hollywood working every week to distribute to the community or a teenager raising $10,000 to benefit the hungry, residents across the state stepped up to help feed their neighbor in times of distress.

Here are some of our favorite stories that proved California’s ability to step up when it was needed most.

North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry Needs Your Help

The pantry had to recruit an entirely new volunteer base when the pandemic hit, but has never failed to deliver food.

Pechanga, Temecula Creek Inn Chefs Serve Community Food Pantry
The chefs volunteered their time at Community Mission of Hope food pantry in Temecula.

Parthenia Fire Victims Honored At Labor Day Breakfast
Councilmember John Lee distributed food and gift bags to the victims of the July 4th fire.

Marin Food Bank Volunteers Fight Hunger Amid Coronavirus.

Dulce Gomez is among thousands of Americans who have embraced the spirit of helping others during this time of great need.
Pleasanton Nonprofit Expands Nationwide To Feed The Hungry
A Pleasanton tech entrepreneur started the nonprofit in March. By June, donors were feeding hungry people in New York, Chicago and beyond.

‘We Will Leave No One Behind’: LA Food Banks See Surge In Help
Volunteers and donors are stepping up to help fight food insecurity in Venice and across LA County.

Northridge Teen Helps Raise $10,000 For The Homeless
Nirvan Rayamajhi, a junior at Granada Hills Charter High School, helped distribute hygiene kits to the homeless all over Los Angeles.

Laguna Beach Neighbors Host Food Drive For Local Pantry
One local couple organized a neighborhood food drive for Laguna Food Pantry so that “no one should go hungry.”

Millions Secured To Feed Hungry, Fund Clinics In Orange County
The Orange County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved two measures to secure essential food and health care for the needy among us.

Food Pantry For Diablo Valley College Students
Students who are food insecure may pick up food three days a week. Here are the details…

LA Food Banks Gather Long Lines Ahead Of Thanksgiving
Long snaking lines outside an LA food bank just days before Thanksgiving point to the economic downturn spurred by the coronavirus pandemic.

Mission Viejo Couple Serves Food, Care Packages At Daily’s
Dan and Christie Forster are giving away loads of food and goodies to the homeless outside of Daily’s Sport Grill this Thanksgiving.

Coastal Roots Farm Offers Pay-What-You-Can Food Amid Coronavirus

The Encinitas-based nonprofit distributes food through its pay-what-you-can Farm Stand, pop-up mobile farm stands and direct donations.

Tara VanDerveer Gives Back After Making History
Tara VanDerveer became the all-time winningest coach in NCAA history.