Stories

Kia is a mother of three — two girls and a boy, ages three, 19 months, and 11 years. “I’m a stay-at-home mom. Although my husband works, it’s still not meeting our needs. Everything has been increasing so much that it’s been a real struggle to get through the week. Even if we go shopping halfway through the week, there’s nothing in the fridge.” Kia discovered Food Share after searching for food assistance locally.

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...

At 75, Louise from Port Hueneme had always worked hard to stay independent. But when degenerative wrist pain forced her to stop her part-time job and federal benefits were cut, she suddenly found herself facing an impossible choice between rent and food. “I made a good salary,” she shared, “but after paying $1,450 in rent, there’s just not enough left for food some months.” Louise discovered Food Share while looking for volunteer opportunities. She began attending distributions to supplement her diet with...

For Valerie, a student at a local high school, Food Share has become a steady source of comfort and nourishment for her family. Living with her mom and four siblings, she says the healthy food they receive makes a real difference. “The food you guys give is very helpful,” Valerie says. “It’s healthy and it really helps families who can’t always afford groceries.” Her favorite part? “The fruit—especially on hot days. My siblings and I really like it.” Valerie remembers feeling unsure the...

Excess crops are an essential source of fresh food for our neighbors. In 2024, 101,643 pounds of fresh fruit and vegetables were gathered through 184 gleaning events — all thanks to the dedication of Food Share volunteers led by Head Gleaner, Dave Orr. For the past 10 years, Dave has led Food Share’s gleaning program, coordinating volunteers, scouting for fruit to pick, and managing the logistics that bring fresh produce directly to families in need. Dave’s work begins long before anyone sets...

“It’s hard to ask for help—so I’m thankful when help shows up.” At 73, Pat has lived a full life marked by service, survival, and resilience. We met him recently at our College Park drive-thru food distribution in Oxnard, where he shared a bit of his story. A divorced veteran living alone in a modest one-bedroom apartment in Port Hueneme, Pat carefully budgets every dollar of his $2,295 monthly Social Security check. After rent, Medigap insurance, and Medicare premiums, he’s left with...

For Lena, a full-time student at Oxnard College, pursuing her education is both a personal dream and a promise to her four children. “I want my kids to see me challenge myself,” she says. “I hope they see I’m trying to make a better life for them.” Lena and her husband, who is on disability, work hard to make ends meet. During the school year, their children receive breakfast and lunch at school, but when summer comes, that vital source of...