Each week, 72-year-old Anita Villalvazo arrives to Heart of Compassion’s distribution center in Montebello to pick up a small package of groceries. She parts with fresh fruits, vegetables, pasta, toiletries, and a sense of hope.
“My social security check only stretches so far,” said Villalvazo, who has been relying on Heart for the past five years. “Between rent and my basic utilities, the dollars go quickly. Heart of Compassion helps me make ends meet, and gives me emotional support when I need it most.”
Known primarily for its food distribution, Heart of Compassion has been serving the needy for over 15 years, handing out food, available furniture and clothing, to over 100 organizations, including local food banks, shelters and school programs throughout Southern California. Additionally, the warehouse opens its doors three times a week to nearly 500 families to pick up food for their respective households.
“We run very lean,” said John Velasco, one of Heart of Compassion’s leaders and a local minister in Whittier. “We have no paid employees and are simply fueled by volunteers and the donations from individuals giving food, time and money.”
In 2013, Heart served 35.4 million dollars worth of food and goods to individuals and families on an operating budget of just $340,000.
“We’re first and foremost known as a food bank, but over the past few years we’ve really started to evolve into a full social services agency,” said Velasco, who sits on the organization’s board of directors. “The people come to us because we’ve built trust with them.”
As a result, Heart has grown to help people find jobs, complete their GED, provide access to transitional housing and lift individuals up with motivational sessions and counsel.
“We’ve seen people transform, find work and come back to volunteer,” said Velasco. “The ultimate goal is to deliver a program that leads to self-reliance and independence.”
Heart is entering one of its busiest seasons with the upcoming Thanksgiving Brunch, scheduled for Nov. 22. An estimated 450 families will receive a turkey, trimmings, and pie and be able to shop for some additional goods and clothes. The group is also partnering with Montebello High School to bring in more than 200,000 canned goods to support local families.
“Food is central to the upcoming holiday, and we often take for granted the blessing of sitting down for three meals a day,” said Supervisor Knabe. “Sadly, many individuals within our County borders go hungry every day. I am grateful that organizations like Heart of Compassion for bring a little bit of holiday joy to those who are less fortunate.”
In December, Heart of Compassion will feature a special food and toy distribution day, set for Dec. 20, aiming to bring a little holiday cheer to individuals and children who have so little.
Volunteers, food donations and monetary contributions are welcome.
“We receive no guaranteed federal funding,” said Velasco. “We really rely on the contributions of individuals, local business and ministries.”
To learn more about Heart of Compassion, visit http://www.heartofcompassionca.org. Additionally, this video illustrates the amazing impact this special nonprofit is having in LA County.