Food insecurity is a major issue in Los Angeles County. Recent research from USC Dornsife highlights that one in four households faced food insecurity in 2025. This means many families had to skip meals or worry about where their next meal would come from. The study emphasizes the need for ongoing community support to combat this problem.
Historically, food insecurity has most affected lower-income households. However, there’s some good news: the USC Dornsife research showed a drop from 41% to 35% in food insecurity among these households in 2025. Local initiatives in food access and nutrition programs have made a difference. Nutrition insecurity, or not having steady access to healthy and culturally appropriate food, also dropped from 29% to 21% across the county.
But the overall picture is more complicated. An increasing number of food-insecure individuals come from higher-income families, often working but still struggling with high living costs in LA. Many of these families earn just above the eligibility for programs like CalFresh, California’s food assistance program. As a result, they face challenges affording basic necessities like housing, childcare, and transportation, leaving little for groceries.
Even those who receive assistance face gaps. In 2025, almost half of CalFresh recipients reported food insecurity. This suggests that current benefits aren’t keeping up with rising food and living costs. With anticipated federal cuts to food assistance programs in 2026, this situation may worsen.
The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank plays a vital role in addressing these issues. They work with numerous partner organizations to ensure that nutritious food reaches those in need, especially during crises like wildfires or health emergencies. The Food Bank helps fill the gaps for families who don’t qualify for traditional support programs.
Food and nutrition insecurity are ongoing challenges that require commitment, collaboration, and community effort. Addressing these issues is vital for ensuring that no one in Los Angeles County goes hungry.
For more details on this situation and the efforts being made, you can read the full study here.
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