World Harvest Food Bank: A Beacon of Support for Striking Writers, Actors, and the Community
A Community Leader's Vision
Glen Curado, the founder and CEO of World Harvest Food Bank, is a community leader and entrepreneur whose vision has transformed the way food banks operate in Los Angeles. His journey began in 2006 when he volunteered at a local food bank and saw the need for improvement. Inspired by his experience as an officer in the U.S. Air Force, Curado opened World Harvest in the impoverished area of Pico-Union in 2007.
The organization quickly outgrew its first location, leading to a relocation in 2014. World Harvest's current home has already been outgrown, reflecting the growing need and the organization's success in meeting it.
Mission and Impact
World Harvest's mission is driven by a desire to reduce food waste in America and feed the hungry. They distribute an average of 25 million pounds of food annually through their facility and over 200 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and after-school programs.
The reach of World Harvest is extensive, providing mainly organic food items to more than 500,000 individuals and 75,000 families each year. Nearly 40% of the recipients are children, 8.1% are elderly, and 31.8% are working families struggling to make ends meet. Each family visiting World Harvest is provided with one grocery basket full of food items.
Funding for World Harvest comes from individuals and corporations, although it has decreased by 10 percent year over year. Despite this, they continue to work with major grocery stores like Whole Foods, City of Los Angeles government agencies, and waste management companies to access food items that would otherwise go to waste.
Partnerships and Programs
World Harvest's innovative approach includes partnerships and programs that extend beyond traditional food bank operations. In 2017, they partnered with Republic Services to reduce food waste in Los Angeles through the RecycLA Program.
They employ 12 full-time and 4 part-time staff, with 75% being women and 90% being bilingual. The organization also receives support from over 2,600 volunteers each year, donating more than 10,000 hours.
World Harvest assists families and individuals in 58 counties within California and has received certificates of appreciation from various officials. They also host an annual 5k run/walk in Downtown Los Angeles to raise awareness about hunger and promote health.
Support for Striking Hollywood Members
With the ongoing strike of Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) members, World Harvest has stepped up to offer free groceries to those affected. This initiative began after a conversation with SAG-AFTRA member Kristina Wong, who has been both an advocate for and customer of World Harvest.
Anyone with a SAG-AFTRA card or WGA card can receive $300-$400 worth of groceries for the duration of the strike. This support extends to all members, recognizing that the average working actor's income can vary greatly due to the gig nature of the business.
Golden Age Jams: A Connection to Cinema's Heritage
Golden Age Jams celebrates the Golden Age of cinema, and recognizes the profound impact that writers and actors have on the world of entertainment. The era known as the Golden Age brought forth timeless classics, unforgettable stars, and a rich legacy that continues to inspire audiences today.
In honoring this heritage, Golden Age Jams understands the importance of supporting the creative minds behind the screen. The ongoing strike involving Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) members resonates with the brand's commitment to the artistic community.
With a shared passion for nourishing both the body and the soul, Golden Age Jams aligns with World Harvest Food Bank's mission to provide food and essentials to those in need. By extending support to the striking writers and actors, Golden Age Jams supports World Harvest in ensuring that the legacy of creativity continues to thrive, nourished by compassion, solidarity, and sustenance.
Transparent and Direct Approach
What sets World Harvest apart is the assurance that support goes directly to those who need it most. By contributing to a food bank like World Harvest, donors can be confident that their generosity is feeding the hungry, reducing food waste, and making a tangible difference in the lives of real people. This transparent and direct approach ensures that every dollar and every food item reaches the intended recipients.
A Closer Look at the Striking Community 
The strike involving WGA and SAG-AFTRA members has been a significant event in Hollywood, affecting tens of thousands of workers. Writers have been on strike since May, and the pressure is on for those striking and out of work, as well as for businesses that rely on industry spending.
World Harvest began offering union members free groceries on the day after SAG-AFTRA formally joined WGA on picket lines. This marked the first double strike to hit Hollywood in 63 years.
The offer to fill a grocery cart with anything on the shelves was described by owner Glen Curado as an “all you can eat” kind of place. This gesture reflects the spirit of World Harvest, where typically shoppers can leave with a shopping cart full of produce, bread, and meat for either a $55 donation or for four hours of volunteering. Anyone who needs food but isn’t able to donate their time gets a free grocery bag full of food.
Community Reactions and Support
The response to World Harvest's support for striking members has been positive, with many expressing admiration for the initiative. However, some have questioned the focus on Hollywood workers. In response, advocates like Kristina Wong emphasize that food insecurity affects various demographics, including actors who may also be single parents, facing eviction, or living out of their cars.
World Harvest's approach recognizes the diverse needs of the community and extends support without judgment or restriction.
How to Help
World Harvest welcomes donations and volunteer support. They also host an annual 5k run/walk in Downtown Los Angeles to raise awareness about hunger and promote health. For those interested in contributing, you can donate on the World Harvest website or click the button to be taken directly to their donation form.