As the holidays approach, several local organizations continue to help locals help each other. There are at least three groups on the Hill that work to keep individuals and families well fed year-round. All depend on volunteers, who, by contributing regular or occasional shifts, keep the spirit of Thanksgiving alive year-round.

Mountain Community Mutual Aid has moved its food distribution program back to Camp Maranatha. Mark Yardas, MCMA co-founder, writes that “Our food box orders are higher than ever as the need has continued to rise dramatically. At the height of the pandemic, we were somewhere in the vicinity of 80-90 boxes. (This week’s) FoodShare orders are well over 200 boxes.”

Yardas added that the next FoodShare dates are December 5 and 19. Those who order a box are invited, but not required, to donate what they can. Many items can be special ordered, including cleaning supplies, personal hygiene items, olive oil, and canned fish and chicken. Register online to order a food box, request help, donate or volunteer at https://mountainaid.net, or call (951)468-0110. Those who sign up are asked to show up within an assigned time window to keep the line down.

Idyllwild Community Center President Stephanie Yost provided this update on their Town Hall distribution: “ICC’s Feeding America food distribution is always the first Tuesday of the month, so our next…is on Tuesday, 12/3. The distribution hours are 10:30 to noon. We serve about 120 families per month.” No advance notice is required at the Town Hall distribution, volunteers will help those that show up sign up. Volunteers may arrive at 9:00.

The Idyllwild Help Center, although it does not run food distribution events, does help many locals with basic needs including groceries. Their Food Pantry provides weekly bags to qualified clients, enough to “feed their family for five days…” Grocery vouchers, honored at Fairway Market and Stater Brothers, are available “when funding is available.” Registration including proof of residence and income is required. They also provide a connection to the intake for many helpful county and state programs. Recipients are asked to volunteer 1/2 hour to a HELP Center project. Those needing assistance or wishing to volunteer may contact their Client Services Administrator, at (951) 659-2110. IdyllwildHelpCenter.org.