feeding the community

In 2018, through close collaborations and conversations with young community members and their families, the Struggle of Love Foundation observed a consistent rise in hunger and food insecurity. Motivated to make a positive impact, the Foundation took initiative and launched the Sacks of Love Food Pantry.

“When kids become involved in our program, we learn about other situations and circumstances they’re facing as a family,” says founder and executive director LaKeshia Hodge. “A lot of that is about meeting basic needs. Before COVID, we had a small closet in the Montbello community building. It was empty, so we decided, why not fill it up with food?”

The impulse to “fill it up with food” has since grown and evolved into one of the organization’s primary programs. Every weekday afternoon at two locations, the Sacks of Love Food Pantry is open to community members of all ages and backgrounds. Through the hands and hearts of dozens of volunteers, a robust array of free food is distributed to more than 600 households per week.

Six years strong, Sacks of Love remains committed to growing its mission and forging stronger partnerships. Additionally, for the past 18 years, Struggle of Love Foundation has ensured that residents in need receive a Thanksgiving food basket through its annual Need to Feed operation. In 2020, the initiative was enhanced through a partnership with the Montbello Organizing Committee and Families Forward Resource Center, strengthening the capacity to serve even more families during the holiday season.