Orange County food banks are reporting a significant increase in the number of families needing assistance this holiday season, including a 63% increase since January, the nonprofit said. Also included.
Some organizations believe the need will wane after the pandemic, but said the level is now higher than ever.
Families Forward, an Irvine-based nonprofit, says it served 240 families each month before the pandemic. We currently serve an average of 674 families per month and our food pantry receives an average of 70 visitors each day.
“Every little thing helps,” said Nicole Blair, who was preparing Thanksgiving dinner. Blair said she recently lost her job, making it difficult to support her family during the holiday season.
“It’s really hard for those of us who lose our jobs over the holidays,” Blair said. “We don’t have all the means to make that much money.”
Approximately 1,200 families registered to receive bags of food to help prepare Thanksgiving meals.
“Just being able to stay home and cook a meal with your family this Thanksgiving can give families hope,” said Amanda Benedetti, Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager at Families Forward. I can feel the power,” he said. Thanksgiving program.
Crystal Lee, who is caring for a family of six, said she lived alone until she saw some of her relatives struggling to make ends meet.
“Most of them don’t speak English, so I do everything for them,” Lee said. “Otherwise they won’t eat.”
Lee said he decided to live with them.
“The reason I help is because one day I come home and my family has a bowl of rice to share,” Lee said through tears. ”
A woman volunteered at a food pantry this week and donated 500 boxes of cereal. Within 24 hours, half had already disappeared from the shelves.
Despite the many needs of this holiday season, Lee says there is much to be thankful for.
“Some of us take things for granted. We don’t appreciate what we have,” Lee said. “It means a lot to us.”
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