Hello Herrick Families,
I want to share important information that affects many of our families. As Federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding is scheduled to end on November 1, food benefits will be reduced for thousands of families across Los Angeles and may leave many facing difficult circumstances. Please know that this change does not impact school meals. Our school will continue to serve three nutritious meals each day — breakfast, lunch, and supper — to all students, at no cost.
In addition, Los Angeles Unified’s Supper Program is available for all children ages 1–18, including community members who are not enrolled in our schools. The program operates at school dismissal, Monday through Friday at most schools, including here at Herrick Avenue, ensuring that every child has access to a healthy meal.
Visit lausd.org/foodhelp for Supper locations. The meal is served at dismissal for 30 minutes and must be eaten on campus. To support our community during this challenging time, we are also launching a schoolwide Food Drive to help replenish supplies at our local food banks and community pantries. Together, we can make a real difference for families right here in our neighborhood. We are collecting non-perishable food items such as:
● Canned fruits, vegetables, and soups
● Rice, beans, and pasta
● Peanut butter, cereal, and shelf-stable milk Donations can be dropped off in the collection boxes located by the front and back gate starting Monday, November 3rd. Every item you give will help a family facing food insecurity this season.
If your family could use additional assistance, please visit these community resources for free food and support: ● YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles: https://ymcala.org/foodprograms
● Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: https://lafoodbank.org/find-food/pantry-locator/
● LA County Parks and Recreation – Parks After Dark Meal Program: https://parks.lacounty.gov/parks-after-dark/
Our school community is strongest when we care for one another. If you or someone you know needs help, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our main office at (818)367-1864 or visit lausd.org/foodhelp for more information. We’re here to support you. Thank you, as always, for your kindness, generosity, and partnership. When we come together, we show our students what compassion and community truly mean.
With care and gratitude,
J.L. Dorado, principal