Maywood may be a small community, but it still musters up enough resources to run a food bank that benefits not just its residents, but those beyond its borders.

“There are times where my family are low in food and the distribution [has] helped,” said Ana Alicia Castillo, a resident of nearby Cudahy who was at the Rio Vista YMCA.

She said she was struggling financially for several months due to her family losing some job opportunities. One of her neighbors, who used to lived in Maywood, told her about the food bank.

Some Maywood residents interviewed said they’re proud of their city for providing social services that help the broader community. 

“I am glad many who are not as privileged as most have a place to receive aid,” said Maywood resident Rosa Moreno.

One of the food banks each month is specifically for senior citizens while another, a mobile food pantry, is in partnership with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and serves all ages.

Maywood is a city of about 27,000 people with 26 percent of its population living below the poverty line, according to 2018 data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

“During tough times, I can rely on my city to help out the people in need and surrounding cities,” said 22-year-old Evania Santos.

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank has helped distribute “1 million pounds of food each week — serving low-income families in underserved areas throughout Los Angeles County,” according to lafoodbank.org.

Folks who are 60 or older with proper photo identification can visit the city’s food pantry from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. — or until the food runs out — every third Thursday at Southeast Rio Vista YMCA, 4801 E. 58th St. People of all ages — even those without documentation or identification — can visit a mobile food bank from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. — or until the food runs out — every fourth Thursday at Maywood’s city hall, 4319 E. Slauson Ave. More information about the food bank is available at 323-562-5705 and cityofmaywood.com/food-bank.

Those interested in donating or volunteering may contact Jesse Rodriguez, a parking enforcement officer who helps organize both food banks, at [email protected] or (323) 562-5764.

Community News reporters are enrolled in JOUR 3910 – University Times. They produce stories about under-covered neighborhoods and small cities on the Eastside and South Los Angeles. Please email feedback, corrections and story tips to [email protected].