It’s that time of year again for the La Jolla Light’s Community Heroes series, shining a light on those quiet forces of good in our community.
Recently, a group of local activists sprang into action following the federal government shutdown. They launched a food drive to support those in need as the winter holidays approach. This initiative, called the Love, La Jolla Community Food Drive, is a collaboration between La Jolla Meals on Wheels and local businesses. They’re gathering non-perishable food items to help families this season.
You can drop off donations at various spots like the Flower Pot Cafe, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters, and Ashen Salon until November 30.
The need is real. Nearly 47,000 furloughed employees in San Diego County felt the fallout of the shutdown. Around 400,000 people in the area rely on CalFresh, California’s version of SNAP, to buy food. This combination created a heightened sense of urgency among local advocates.
Molly Bowman Styles, a member of La Jolla Meals on Wheels, expressed her drive to help. “Many in our community are struggling, especially after the shutdown. I wanted to see how we could expand our reach,” she mentioned.
She believes there’s something special about the spirit of a food drive. “It brings back memories of childhood and shows how a community can come together,” she said.
Bowman Styles reached out to local businesses, whose enthusiastic support turned them into drop-off locations. “Especially during the holidays, the need is great. We feel privileged to help those in La Jolla,” she noted.
This food drive is a continuation of La Jolla Meals on Wheels’ mission, which recently delivered its 1 millionth meal since starting in 1974. President Ron Jones emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “The same spirit that got us to our 1 million meals drives us to help our hungry neighbors.”
The service focuses on homebound seniors and people with disabilities in La Jolla. They deliver two meals a day, Monday through Friday. Jones pointed out, “You wouldn’t know, but there are many who face challenges right here in La Jolla.”
Events like the Love, La Jolla Community Food Drive help raise awareness about food insecurity in the area. “We may live in a privileged community, but it’s crucial to recognize those in need,” Jones said.
In the grand scheme, this initiative is a reminder of the power of community. As the holidays draw near, let’s keep an eye out for those who may need a helping hand.
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