Leonce is grateful for the delicious food he receives from the pantry.

He now volunteers at the church pantry

In 2023, Leonce relocated to the United States from Ghana, West Africa. Upon arrival in Van Nuys, Leonce and his fiancée were married. They became members of Rock of The Valley Church of God in Christ and began working in the Missions Ministry.

Finding steady work with his electrician skills has been a challenge for Leonce. The family’s combined household income pays the rent and bills but leaves very little money left over for anything else. The food Leonce and his wife get from Rock of Valley helps to supplement their income, allowing their money to go farther.

“What I get helps out (very) much. The price of food in the U.S. is significantly higher than what I had been accustomed to in Ghana,” Leonce said. “Although I need just a little from the food pantry to help out, the little is big and goes a long way in my household.”

Leonce is so grateful to be able to get fresh ingredients, he decided to give back and serve the community. He’s now a regular volunteer at the food pantry.

“Volunteering is a way for me to show people the love of Christ, as well as a way for me to feel like I am earning what I get. I am so grateful for the food pantry for more reasons than one.

“It’s a blessing to be able to help in the pantry, it’s a blessing to see people in need get food that helps their household. The pantry gives hope that the community my family lives in in Ghana can one day have a food pantry to help others. I pray that food pantries will be available to people in need all around the world. “I appreciate everyone who helps make food pantries happen. Bless you!”

The Rock of Valley Church of God in Christ food pantry operates every Tuesday from 4 to 5 p.m. It’s located at 7722 Kester Ave. in Van Nuys.

Visit valleyfoodbank.org/food-pantry-locations for all of our pantries’ locations.

For volunteer opportunities with RMA Valley Food Bank, please visit valleyfoodbank.org/volunteer.