The Karsh Family Social Service Center’s Food and Nutrition Security programs began in response to the urgent needs of individuals living in and around Koreatown, where one in three households are experiencing food insecurity. Recognizing the growing demand for food and essential resources, the Karsh Center’s Food Pantry expanded its services with the launch of Karsh Mobile, our mobile food pantry program, offering doorstep deliveries of fresh, nutritious groceries to our most vulnerable community members.  

This program is designed specifically for clients who are facing disability, illness, or other barriers that prevent them from traveling to our on-site food pantry. Parents with a child under one year or individuals within their third trimester of pregnancy are also eligible to participate. Twice monthly, Karsh volunteers deliver nutritionally balanced bags of groceries containing fresh produce, protein, canned and dry goods to these clients. They not only receive groceries, but other essentials like diapers and household cleaning supplies that are included once a month in their deliveries. They also have access to social services and the 30+ collaborator organizations we partner with, creating a comprehensive safety net for themselves and their families. 

We’re thrilled to announce two exciting expansions to our program that will significantly enhance the support we’re able to provide to our clients, thanks to support from DoorDash Project DASH. Firstly, we’re in the process of contracting with a nutritionist to create meal plan templates for our Karsh Mobile clients. This will allow us to customize grocery bags to meet the specific dietary needs and restrictions of our clients. From securing specialty foods for various diets to addressing common health concerns like high cholesterol and diabetes, our nutritionist will tailor each delivery to the well-being of our clients. 

Secondly, Karsh Mobile is expanding its reach by adding an estimated twenty to thirty additional deliveries per month by August 2024. By reaching more households with our services, we will make a greater impact in our community, ensuring everyone has access to the essential resources they need to thrive. 

We look forward to continuing to grow this program to fight food insecurity in our Los Angeles community.