While the devastating impact of COVID-19 on people’s lives and health has made 2020 a challenging year, the pandemic has also negatively impacted the overall economy and the financial strength of many individuals. For some, the loss of income has led to issues accessing nutritious sustenance. A new term – food insecurity – has recently been coined to describe this dire situation.
In order to help provide proper nourishment to struggling families and individuals, BAPS Charities and its 50+ centers throughout the United States have dedicated all of its annual food drives to combat food insecurity.
BAPS Charities organized a food drive in Los Angeles, California, on November 25, 2020. Over 300 pounds of canned/dry food items and 200 pounds of fresh produce were collected by volunteers and donated to Youth Emerging Stronger (YES).
Located in the heart of Hollywood, (YES) is an organization that delivers comprehensive support for runaway, homeless, and foster youth. The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority reports that there are nearly 10,800 homeless young people in LA County alone, with a focus on Black, Latino, and vulnerable youth.
Venice Dunn, Director of Development and Communications for YES shared her deep gratitude to BAPS Charities. “For a number of years, BAPS Charities has supported Youth Emerging Stronger, and for that, we are super appreciative. The huge amount of food you have provided will help us tackle the food insecurities that our youth are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important for community partners and charities to be more active hyper-locally. Your donations will go to those who are most at-risk and vulnerable. Thank you so much!”
Donations were collected while observing appropriate masking and social distance guidelines to protect the health of everyone involved. BAPS Charities thanks all of the volunteers and donors of diverse ages and backgrounds who came together to help the community during these difficult times.
