AIDS Food Store of Long Beach

In 1985, a group from Christ Chapel Long Beach came together to address the issue of hunger in a community where many social service agencies were unable or unwilling to help. In November 1985, AIDS Food Store Long Beach was born, with a commitment that no one in the Long Beach area living with HIV/AIDS disabilities would ever be without food, love and support. Our clients are men, women and children whose lives have been impacted by HIV/AIDS disabilities. Today, after two decades of distributing many tons of food to thousands of clients, AIDS Food Store remains true to its mission... "Until there is no longer a need, the ALL volunteer staff of AIDS Food Store will continue to address the issue of hunger in the HIV/AIDS community, be it physical, emotional or spiritual. Whether infected or affected, AIDS Food Store will never turn you away..." Our clients are referred to us through many social services and governmental agencies. We ask for confirmation of diagnosis from a doctor, and that clients subsist on an income of $1500.00 a month or less. AIDS Food Store relies on agencies, foundations, groups, churches, businesses and individuals to assist with ongoing donations of food, supplies and financial support. We receive no government funding and have no paid administration. On the second and fourth Saturday of the month, clients are given a standard bag of staples selected for balanced nutrition. They then have the opportunity to select from a variety of other foods, including fresh fruits, vegetables, pastries, breads, meat and dairy products. We approach this from a non-institutional perspective, at absolutely no cost to the client. Today, AIDS Food Store is the longest serving HIV/AIDS food provider in Southern California!