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PROGRAM
Mutual Aid for Justice
Empowering Communities, Restoring Dignity, and Building Resilience
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WE ARE NOT NUMBERS
The disproportionate impact of poverty and homelessness on Black communities is undeniable and requires immediate, community-driven solutions. At The Valley of Change, our Mutual Aid Program is grounded in the belief that no one should face these challenges alone. We work to support the most vulnerable in our community by providing essential resources like food, clothing, and hygiene products, while also building solidarity and addressing structural inequalities.
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are Black
Black Americans represent 40% of the homeless population despite making up only 13% of the U.S. population.
[Source: Cornell Chronicle]
are Black
In Los Angeles County, nearly 50% of the homeless population is Black, a direct result of long-standing racial inequalities in housing, education, and employment.
[Source: Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority]
Food insecurity affects over 1 in 5 Black households in the U.S., highlighting the need for grassroots, community-based programs like ours to combat this disparity.
[Source: USDA]
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🥪 Daily Meal Distribution
Every day at the corner, we provide nutritious meals and essential non-perishable food items to our friends. They know that they can rely on us for daily support, creating a dependable source of nourishment and care for those facing hunger and food insecurity. Our consistent presence ensures that no one in our community is left behind.
🥡 Monthly Food Distribution
Our Feed Our Friends gathering takes place every month, where we come together to assemble and distribute nutritious meals and non-perishable food items. These meals are shared with our friends and neighbors who are facing food insecurity, ensuring that no one goes without the nourishment and care they deserve.
🪥 Hygiene Kits and Essentials
We assemble and distribute essential hygiene products such as soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, feminine hygiene items, and more. By providing these kits, we help those in need maintain not only their health, but also their dignity, offering vital support for personal care to those who do not have regular access to these essentials.
🧦 Clothing and Blankets
We provide warm clothing and blankets to our unhoused friends, helping protect them against harsh weather conditions. This act of care ensures they have the essentials needed for comfort and safety, particularly during cold nights and unpredictable weather.
😷 COVID-19 and Health Safety
We distribute COVID-19 test kits, masks, hand sanitizer, soap, disinfectant wipes, and first aid kits to help protect our community from health risks, particularly for those experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Additionally, we provide vitamins and immune support supplements to strengthen overall well-being. These resources are critical for safeguarding our most vulnerable neighbors and promoting health during ongoing public health challenges. By addressing both immediate health needs and preventative care, we aim to reduce the risk of illness and improve the quality of life for all.
❤️🩹 Emotional and Mental Health Support
Through our partnerships with mental health professionals and peer-led support groups, we offer essential emotional and psychological care to individuals facing hardship. Our aim is to provide a compassionate space where those in need can receive counseling, peer support, and guidance to navigate their challenges, fostering mental well-being and resilience during difficult times.