Parents, grandparents and children all showed up at the Slauson Super Mall parking lot with one thing in common: they needed help.
That’s where “We Grow LA” was holding a distribution event, where they handed out food, clothing and toys to the hundreds who lined up.
“Whether it’s food, encouragement, love, or hope, I think we’ve all felt like something is missing at some point in our lives,” said Lauren Brazile, the founder of the group. “We’re just trying to cross off as many of those boxes as we can.”
Brazile said the group’s been holding distributions every Friday, and that the number of people showing up each week continues to grow.
“We had around 300 folks today,” Brazile said. “Now it’s around 300-350 every week.”
Among those in line was Alfonso Arenas, who said he was laid off from his construction job three months ago and has not been able to find work since. He said he’s been applying everywhere, but has not yet had any luck.
Others said that rising prices on food, rent and transportation are stretching their budgets to the limit.
“It’s harder to buy food (and) clothes,” said Ambi Smith. “That’s why we come out to these events.”
Every bit of help the distribution provides goes a long way.
“Here you can save your money, you get only the things you need and you come and feed yourself,” said Rosa Lopez. “It is helpful.”
The group said it will continue holding distributions every Friday at the same location.
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