PACOIMA, Calif. — More than 500 low-income families here received help this season at a Holiday Community Food Drive hosted by Khalsa Care Foundation, a Sikh American non-profit organization that provides community services for children, youth and adults, and sustains the social vitality and cultural vibrancy of the Sikh American heritage, according to a press release.
The event, which took place at the Sikh gurdwara here, included a warm vegetarian meal, giveaways, games and a raffle. Organizers and volunteers distributed 1,500 bags of food, toiletries and amenities, clothes, toys and more to the more than 500 families gathered.
In addition, there was a raffle of four Target gift cards worth $50 each and toys for several families. Children and teenagers also enjoyed carnival games, prizes, ice cream, cotton candy and popcorn.
Guests include representatives from the offices of Congressman Tony Cardenas, LA Mayor Eric Garcetti, L.A. city councilman Felipe Fuentes, Senator Robert Hertzberg, Assemblywoman Patty Lopez and LAUSD board member Monica Ratliff.
According to the 2010 Census, roughly 17 percent of households in Pacoima are at or below the poverty level.
A recent study by The Center for Southern California Studies at California State University, Northridge, showed that the proportion of families living at or below the poverty level remains extremely high in the Northeast San Fernando Valley with Pacoima exceeding countywide averages.
In the past, the Sikh American community has provided food and needed items to the Fred Jordan Mission on Skid Row, but in recent years it has looked to support local families and neighbors in Pacoima through a holiday community event at its gurdwara as part of “seva,” selfless service to others.