Looking for the Helpers: Solvang nonprofit doubles food distribution during pandemic

As our area is faced with ongoing changes due to a growing pandemic, we are bringing stories of people doing good in the community during a time of uncertainty.

Help us look for the helpers!

People Helping People

A nonprofit organization in Solvang has doubled its efforts during the pandemic to feed families in need.

People Helping People has been distributing food to local families for more than 20 years.

However, the demand has increased because many people have lost their jobs or their hours have been cut due to the economic effects of COVID-19.

The organization has worked tirelessly to fill the gap, increasing their food distribution events to accommodate about 100 families each week.

It's all made possible with donations from local businesses, the Foodbank and a dedicated team of volunteers.

Food Program Coordinator Victor Gonzalez said that there is a lot of uncertainty right now, and People Helping People wants to live up to its name.

“I’m a family man. I have a daughter, I have a wife. I really do understand how much of a burden this can be and how worrisome, especially in times like this. You still have your bills to pay, you still have to feed your families,” said Gonzalez.

Since the pandemic started, the requirements to qualify for the event have loosened. Anyone is welcome to pick up food at the weekly events - no questions asked.

Organizers said they would greatly appreciate food or money donations as well, which can be accepted at the weekly events. The nonprofit uses the cash donations to purchase more food supplies.

The food distributions take place every Thursday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Santa Ines Mission.

To find out more about People Helping People, or to donate online, click here.