Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s Food Boxes Program Nurtures

As seen in photo, Assistance League of Diablo Valley President Susan Angle (l) and Vice President Philanthropic Programs Sabra Johnson (r) welcome Alma Contreras, Student Intern for the Contra Costa Family Service Center, in Richmond, CA, who shared how the Food Boxes program has improved the lives of client families.

Assistance League^® of Diablo Valley is a nonprofit, member volunteer organization dedicated to improving lives in our community through hands-on programs, all funded by the Assistance League Way Side Inn Thrift Shop, located in Lafayette. Initiated in 2006, Community Programs consists of seven programs that meet a range of immediate needs, one of which is the Food Boxes program. Last year alone, Community Programs donated 300 Food Boxes for families on CalWorks.

At the Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s September regular chapter meeting, Alma Contreras, Student Intern for the Contra Costa Family Service Center, in Richmond, CA, shared how the Food Boxes program has improved the lives of client families. She stated, “One of my personal goals is to bring healthy eating habits to those in underprivileged areas.” In that North Richmond has no major grocery store and that groceries in the immediate area are available in liquor stores only, the need for outreach is amplified. Many residents do not own a car, while others avoid Southside grocery stores due to old gang affiliations.

The Food Boxes program goes beyond the basic need of providing nutritious meals to deserving and appreciative families, families who extend and creatively stretch the provisions. Not only does the donated food fuel the body, it fortifies the mind. Likewise, the Food Boxes program nurtures at a deeper level, as indicated by a note of encouragement carefully placed in each of the food boxes. The Food Boxes program comforts children who many times do not know from where their next meal may come. It also fosters the belief that we all have the right to be safe.

Alma Contreras, the mother of three growing boys, with her husband, wants to, “make a difference in her community where the children and families are the heart.” Ms. Contreras concluded her presentation by sharing that recipient families give back by donating clothing to those in need and that Assistance League of Diablo Valley does make a difference.

When community minded organizations team with local support agencies, EVERYBODY WINS! To learn about all nine of Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s hands-on philanthropic programs, please visit this website: www.assistanceleague.org/diablovalley.