At SOVA's three comprehensive service centers in the Los Angeles area, we offer:
Food Pantry:
Each pantry is staffed by a manager, an assistant manager and trained volunteers. The sites are colorful, welcoming and comfortable environments, where priority is placed on respecting the dignity and individuality of all who seek our help. Pantries are stocked with high quality, nutritious canned and packaged foods, bakery products and fresh produce. The pantry provides a 5 day supply of free groceries and personal hygiene products (when needed) for each family member.
Resource Center:
Within each JFS/SOVA food pantry facility is a Resource Center. The Resource Center’s professional staff and para-professional volunteers provide information and referral to other community services and help people find solutions to other challenges. Examples of referrals include shelter, free medical services, free vision care, homeless services, clothing resources, employment, senior services and child care.
Community Connections:
In addition, through the expanded Community Connections “one stop” project, community specialists provide services on-site on a regular basis. Currently those services include free legal counseling, job counseling, food stamp enrollment, Medi-Cal enrollment, and assistance with utility bills.
Counseling/Case Management:
JFS social workers are on-site at the three pantries to provide short-term counseling, case management, and "navigation" of other systems to link with essential social services and community resources.
Children’s Corner:
Each site also features a Children’s Corner, where children can enjoy books while waiting, and then select a few books to take home to create their own libraries.