I continue to be thrilled and humbled to work alongside the Rescue Mission Alliance Valley Food Bank’s outstanding staff, Pantry network partners, donors and volunteers. We believe access to food and nutrition should be available to all. I am looking forward to learning from others how we can better serve those in need as we navigate a challenging environment attempting to tackle complex issues – affordable housing; homelessness; food insecurity and safe neighborhoods.

Recently we completed eighteen years serving the community. We started with humble beginnings as an offshoot of the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission. Our mission has not changed over the years, but our reach certainly has. Thanks to our collaborative model of partnering with places of worship and other non-profits in the area, we distribute essential food resources to more than 44,000 families each year representing 160,000 individuals. To make that happen, we collect more than 2,000,000 lbs. of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as 2,225,000 lbs. of canned and dry goods annually.

It takes a caring and generous community to ensure hunger issues have a priority and continuous efforts are made to eliminate food insecurity. As we continue to search for the best and most efficient ways to ensure struggling families have the food they need to thrive, we are thankful beyond words for the support, encouragement and prayers of our heroes and partners. Trusting your holidays will be joy filled and surrounded by family and friends that you love and appreciate.