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North Hollywood food pantry reports demand surge after CalFresh changes
The pantry distributed 386 bags in one day as benefit changes and rising food costs put added pressure on local households.
North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry says its daily demand is rising as some families adjust to changes in CalFresh, California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and continue to face higher grocery costs.
Chairwoman Jane Poole told NBC Los Angeles that the pantry distributed 386 bags last Friday — a volume she associated with budget crises and government shutdowns. She said CalFresh funding changes took effect October 1 and have left some recipients seeking emergency help.
One-day distribution: 386 bags
CalFresh changes took effect: October 1
L.A. County food insecurity in 2025: 24%
Regional demand remains elevated
The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank also reports distributing more food this year than last year. Its president and CEO, Michael Flood, said families, older adults and others are finding that their money does not stretch as far.
The pressure extends beyond a single pantry. A study by the food bank and USC Dornsife found that food insecurity held at 24% in Los Angeles County in 2025, while federal data cited by NBC Los Angeles showed regional grocery prices up 3% over the year.