Free groceries to be distributed twice a month at McKinley Elementary in North Long Beach

The local non-profit organization Help Me Help You (HMHY) opened its 11th grocery distribution location at McKinley Elementary on Sept. 22.

During the event, residents in need received free nutritious groceries, school supplies, sweets and enrollment assistance for essential community services.

According to Data USA, Long Beach has a poverty rate of 16.2%, higher than the national average of 12.8%. 

“As someone who used a food bank as a student, I know how vitally important these resources are for students to have everything they need,” said 9th District Councilmember Joni Ricks-Oddie in a public statement. “Having access to healthy foods helps to provide the best learning environment when our children and families are not worried about where their next meal comes from. Thank you to all the entities who made this possible.”

McKinley Elementary School serves an area with high need, as approximately 91.6% of its students receive free and reduced lunch assistance, significantly exceeding the state average of 60.7%. 

The Grocery Grab N’ Go aims to address food insecurity, which can lead to health issues, developmental challenges, emotional struggles and poor educational outcomes.

“We are grateful to have the Grab n’ Go pantry onsite at McKinley Elementary. Many of our families and the community appreciate the generosity and support this service provides. With rising costs of food, the pantry plays a significant role in meeting the needs of the community and is a valuable resource for many. The additional grocery support provided by Grab n’ Go eases the financial burden on our families and the community,” said Principal Dulnari Edirisinghe-Aga in a public statement.

The 9th District Long Beach Grocery Grab N’ Go will open on the second and fourth Friday of every month at McKinley Elementary (6822 Paramount Blvd.). 
For a full list of Help Me Help You’s Grocery Grab N Go locations visit www.helpmehelpu.org/ggng.