Los Angeles County has more people than almost anywhere in our country. In addition, it has one of the largest populations of food insecure individuals. Food insecurity arises when people do not have access to the food needed to survive in good health or without going hungry.
Feeding America reported that hunger exists in every area of Los Angeles County, and affects an estimated 1.5 million people. That means approximately 16% of those who live in our communities do not know where they will find their next meal.
Who are the hungry in Los Angeles County?
- Fixed-income seniors
- People with disabilities
- Low-income families
- Women and children in safe shelters
- The homeless
- Single income families dealing with high medical issues
- Your neighbor
Additionally, nearly 30% of people in Los Angeles County who are food insecure are low-income adults with jobs. Another 12% of Los Angeles County’s food insecure live above the poverty level.
The soaring cost of living is a major factor contributing to hunger in Los Angeles County. Even families with two incomes may be unable to provide adequate food. Many must choose between paying their rent or mortgage and feeding their families.
Hunger in Children
One in four children in our communities don’t know where they will get their next meal. Even breakfast is available to low income youth through public schools, nearly half of these students don’t eat the most important meal of the day. For some, it is impossible to arrive early enough to receive the meal. Others choose not to eat because of the social stigma associated with needing a free meal. This is slowly changing. School districts are providing breakfast in classrooms so it becomes part of the routine schedule. Since doing this, more than 117,000 additional low-income kids eat.
While we may not be able to eliminate hunger and food insecurity on our own, we can help. To participate in the Flair Cares Spring Food Drive, bring unopened, non-perishable, canned or boxed food to any Flair Cleaners. Items that have passed their expiration dates or food in glass jars cannot be accepted. Visit our Facebook page for a complete list of items that are needed. Everyone who donates will receive a coupon for 50% off a future Flair Cleaners dry cleaning order.
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