Hill food assistance roundup

David Jerome
Correspondent

Over the last year-and-a-half the Hill has seen unprecedented circumstances and needs in these communities. Many people have experienced food insecurity, some for the first time.

Fortunately, the Hill is home to many dedicated volunteer groups working to make sure no one here goes hungry. Most of these groups distribute free grocery boxes. Some encourage anyone interested in low-cost, high-quality groceries to sign up and pay what they can, making a suggested donation to support the group’s mission. To quote Mountain Communities Mutual Aid, “Not charity, solidarity.”

Some of the groups offer other services, including fire abatement, household maintenance, errands and human connection. All run on volunteer labor and welcome contributions. They partner with a constellation of local businesses, nonprofits and government agencies.

Here are some ways to replenish the pantry, build community and have some fun: (Editor’s note: Next week, the Jerome will volunteer and take a look inside a few of these groups.)

The Idyllwild Help Center

The Help Center Food Pantry provides weekly bags to qualified clients. Grocery vouchers, honored at Fairway Market, are available “when funding is available.” Registration, including proof of residence and income is required. Recipients are asked to volunteer a half-hour to a Help Center project. Those needing assistance or wishing to volunteer may contact Skye Zambrana, client services administrator, at (951) 659-2110.

Mountain Communities Mutual Aid

Food Boxes for two and four people, and essential household/personal hygiene items are available. Also, food options like canned fish, dry beans and olive oil can be ordered. Donations are suggested, with about half of recipients paying $15 for a small box and $30 for the larger.

Distribution happens between 12:45 and 2 p.m. every Thursday, at Camp Maranatha, 54162 Maranatha Drive. Delivery is an option for those unable to pickup. Register online to order a food box, request help, donate or volunteer at https://mountainaid.net. The phone number is (951) 468-0110.

The Food Ministry

Calvary Chapel Mountain Center oversees distributions from 1 to 2 p.m. every Thursday. Lines form around 12:30 p.m. at the Mountain Center church, 29375 Highway 243. Contact Assistant Pastor Gary Sherman at (951) 659-0097 for more information.

Idyllwild Community Center/Feeding America

Grocery distribution happens from 10 a.m. to noon the first Tuesday of every month at Town Hall, 25925 Cedar Street. Suggested line-up time is 9 a.m. but some show up as early as 7:30 a.m.

In case of snow or heavy, the program moves to Friday. Just show up and sign up. For more information or to volunteer, call Marty Kreiger at (951) 538-1246.

Helping Hearts on the Hill

This group distributes meals to senior citizens on Mondays. These are apparently very nice meals, courtesy of Ferro’s Restaurant. Donations of $5 are gratefully accepted.

The group also provides volunteers to run local errands, and conducts wellness, family contact checks and a variety of services to create “intergenerational compassionate connections,” according to member Caitlin Mathey. It is a Facebook group and can be reached to sign up for assistance or volunteering at (310) 567-5013.