In anticipation of food banks becoming overwhelmed, Governor Gavin Newsom is mobilizing the National Guard to assist in distributing food to those in need.
“We are using the framework we established during COVID to build out our capacity to deliver quickly to those in need around Thanksgiving by using Cal volunteers and the National Guard,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
The Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry is already seeing an increase in phone calls as November 1 approaches.
“I was actually on the phone with someone right now trying to get information for their son to get it because of what’s going on right now,” said Rachel Compton, Director of Community Development.
“So, definitely got a lot of phone calls. So we anticipate that we’re going to get more clients for sure,” said Compton.
So what should you do if you’re affected?
“So just as long as they live within the Santa Clarita Valley, they’re more than welcome to stop by and receive food. So anywhere from Acton to Castaic, that big general pool that we have, just as long as they reside there, we do request proof of address,” said Michael Lopez, Operations Manager.
“So it would be any physical paper bill that has their name and the address they say they’re currently staying at, as well as an ID,” said Lopez.
But even if you don’t need assistance, there are ways you can help.
“It’s everyone in the Santa Clarita Valley and beyond that who helps us stay open. If you’re looking to give, food donations and monetary donations are great,” said Compton.
For more information, visit SCVFoodPantry.org.
