Making a Difference: Hope Center

Hunger is a harsh reality for many families living on the central coast. According to Hope Center Monterey, one in five people will require help getting food at some point in their lives. That’s the reason people young and old, volunteer to help.

Luciana Morgan started volunteering in Brazil as a young child. She was following the example made by her parents. She says it’s a passion she hopes to pass on to her children.

“I started three years ago, when my oldest daughter was five years old. I think it’s good for her to see and appreciate her life and value what she has” says Morgan.

Twice a month, Luciana brings her daughters to Hope Center Monterey. She says it’s the perfect place to introduce kids to volunteering because there are several activities they can do.

The food pantry operates entirely on donation support and provides groceries, clothing, toiletries and pet food to struggling families. It’s a mission that the organization has been orchestrating for six years. So far, the organization says it’s been able to help feed two hundred families a month across the county.

Kristy Rector is the Director for Hope Center Monterey. She says the organization was inspired as an idea, shared between a group of moms, hoping to do something positive for the community. The group also hoped it would be an opportunity for children to volunteer.

“You never know what life is going to bring you and we’re here to bridge that gap for people when they’re struggling. We wanted young kids to volunteer, make a difference, and see how satisfying and rewarding it is” says Rector.

“There are a lot of people in the world that don’t have what we have. We give them food and clothes and things they need” says 8 year old volunteer Luiza.

10 year old Mariana agrees and says the most satisfying part is knowing she helping people in need.
Hope Center Monterey will have its next distribution on March 19th.

If you’d like to help donate, they’re also hosting a fundraiser on April 7th.

For more information head to http://www.hopecentermonterey.com/