Neighbors

Ten years ago, when Lisa moved to Simi Valley as a single mother of two young children, life was uncertain. After losing her job, she found herself in a situation she never expected: needing help putting food on the table. Like many people, Lisa carried assumptions about food assistance programs. She worried about what others might think and whether asking for help meant she had somehow failed. Then she discovered something different. The people she met at food distributions were neighbors, parents, workers,...

Bob Kinseth collects food for eight families in his community, including single mothers, elderly neighbors, and children who have recently lost a parent. “Having access to this food makes their life a lot easier. It helps them get by, especially those on very limited budgets. It probably provides two or three meals that they wouldn’t otherwise have.” Bob and his wife carefully distribute items based on dietary needs, making sure fresh fruits, meats, and gluten-free products reach those who need them most. “A...

Roger Crump collects food for a few people in his community, including family members, friends, and neighbors facing severe challenges—some are homeless, some live in housing programs, and one has had both legs amputated. “I pick up food for them and deliver it directly. Without this, many of them wouldn’t have anything to eat a couple of days a week. It makes a real difference.” Roger first came to Food Share through his church, attending a drive-through distribution. “The volunteers were lovely and...

At Food Share’s College Park drive-thru food distribution, we met two neighbors waiting patiently in line: Cecilio and Chuys. Though their stories are different, both shared the same concern many families across Ventura County are facing right now — the rising cost of simply getting by. Cecilio came to the United States decades ago and spent 45 years working hard to build a better life. He retired last year, hoping to finally enjoy a well-earned rest. Instead, he now worries about...

On a recent weekday at College Park in Oxnard, hundreds of cars lined up, waiting patiently for a Food Share distribution to begin. Among them was Lupe Fernandez, a mother of four, sitting in her van and hoping to bring home enough food for her family. For Lupe, this isn’t just about groceries—it’s about making impossible choices a little less frequent. “You have to pick. Either buy food or pay for a bill. It’s hard to pick.” Like many families in Ventura County,...

Living with a disability and relying on a fixed income, this Ventura County resident faces an impossible balancing act each month—choosing between gas, electricity, and groceries. “It’s an everyday occurrence,” Missy said. “Should I pump gas, or should I eat?” When she first came to a Food Share distribution, she was nervous and unsure what to expect. “I didn’t know if people would be friendly,” she shared, “but I’ve always been treated with kindness and respect.” Now, fresh fruit, vegetables, dairy, and...