Access to quality, nutritious food is fundamental to human existence. However, almost 20% of kids in America don’t know where their next meal is coming from. We can do better. That is why, in alignment with our commitment to build a healthier future for our nation’s children and promote food security, the YMCA of Greater Whittier operates a year-round food program for our community’s youth. 

Why We Work to Reverse Food Insecurity in Our Community 

The USDA defines a household as food insecure when it lacks consistent access to adequate food due to a lack of finances or other resources during the year. Consider these statistics: 

  • 2 million kids in America struggle with hunger 
  • 21 million kids rely on free and reduced-price school lunches during school. 
  • 6 out of 7 eligible kids do not get summer meals 

Our food programs (since the pandemic began, we have provided 85,000+ meals to kids) close this gap by providing availability and access to food. And the results can be huge. When kids have consistent, healthy meals, they: 

  • Do better in school 
  • Build stronger relationships 
  • Have fewer sick days from school 
  • Score higher on standardized tests 

Where Can Kids Get Food? 

Do you know kids in our community who could use more to eat? Grab-and-Go meals are available! 

Uptown Whittier YMCA Family Center: 12510 Hadley St. Whittier, CA 90601 

  • M-F Service time is 12-1:30 PM. 
  • Each pick-up will include 3 breakfast meals and 3 lunch meals and 3 Snacks. 

East Whittier YMCA Family Center: 15740 Starbuck St. Whittier, CA 90603 

  • M-F Service time is 9-11:00 AM. 
  • Each pick-up will include 3 breakfast meals and 3 lunch meals and 3 Snacks. 

Both locations will provide children with 3 breakfast meals and 3 lunch meals on Fridays in preparation for the weekend. 

Get Involved! 

Do you want to join us in ensuring kids get the food and nutrition to be healthy, active, and well-nourished all year long? Volunteer or donate to the YMCA of Greater Whittier to get involved and actively support initiatives to end food insecurity in our communities! 

The YMCA of Greater Whittier’s food programs comply with the Y’s Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) standards, which support healthy choices and environments and lay the foundation for a positive youth development journey. Additionally, our year-round food program operates in accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies.