No One Goes Away Hungry at the West Valley Food Pantry

The West Valley Food Pantry remains true to its motto that “no one goes away hungry,” even during our current pandemic. Giving away much-needed groceries to more than 77,000 people over the past seven months alone, their team of tireless workers and volunteers is still on the front
lines.

What began back in 1975 as a small collection of canned goods donated by caring parishioners of the Prince of Peace Episcopal Church in Woodland Hills has grown into a massive relief effort. Prior to the recent shutdown, the pantry served as many as 3,500 people a month. It continues to operate a drive-thru food line in the church’s parking lot at 5700 Rudnick Avenue.

“We could not do what we do for the community without our amazing and dedicated volunteers,” shares Lily Varner. “We have morning and afternoon shifts, which include computer entry and verification, picking up and sorting food from grocery store donors, and distributing it to our drive-thru clients.” All volunteers need is a big heart and the desire to help feed the hungry. The pantry supplies the rest.

The West Valley Food Pantry continues to incorporate an interfaith coalition of churches and temples and generous donors and volunteers to alleviate hunger within our community. They accept able-bodied adults and teens from 16 to 18 years of age with parental permission. To keep everyone safe, volunteers and employees undergo a temperature check and short questionnaire before each shift. They also disinfect all surfaces and equipment and provide masks, gloves, and plenty of hand sanitizer.

Nominated by State Assemblyman Jessie Gabriel and selected as a 2020 California Non-Profit of the Year, The West Valley Food Pantry gratefully accepts monetary donations and unopened, unexpired foods. Visit the website for further information on contributing to this worthy cause. Those interested in volunteering can also fill out an online application at westvalleyfoodpantry.org.