This time of year, the season of love and giving, most people give a thought or two to those of our city who are in need. According to the homeless count released by the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services on September 7, 2011, Long Beach has over 4000 homeless people, either sheltered or non-sheltered, 586 of them being children.
However, it is not only homeless people who are hungry and in need. With a 13.4% unemployment rate, 2% higher than the state overall, many families and individuals are hanging by a thread financially.
You can help by donating food. There are many places in Long Beach that will gladly accept it. Fresh & Easy grocery stores are accepting food donations at their stores. Albertons allows customers to purchase a bag full of groceries that the store will have delivered to someone who needs it. Most churches will also accept food donations or tell you who will.
The most widespread donation points are the collection spots for Food Finders. Food Finders collects food all year round and distributes it to agencies who directly serve the public.
Right now Food Finders is making a citywide campaign to collect holiday food donations. Donors can drop off food at nearly any branch of the Long Beach Public Library. Long Beach's own bank, Farmers and Merchants also collects food for Food Finders at all branches.
There are numerous other choices including the 7-11 at 1190 N. Studebaker Road, Appleby at 119 Linden Ave., Assistance League of Long Beach at 2100 E. 4th Street, many branches of Curves, Free Spirit Yoga, Long Beach Animal Care Services at 7700 E. Spring St. You can see the whole list in a pdf format.
This same pdf document also has the list of the most needed items. It includes items such as shampoo, razors, deodorant, feminine products,diapers and baby formula. These items are just as important as food. Imagine if your child had no diapers to change into.
Also included is pet food, pet treats, and KMR which is formula for kittens and puppies, but also supplements nutrition in food for sick or weak dogs and cats. Please do not forget the pets. It is a painful thing to watch a beloved pet be hungry.
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