Three local organizations are stepping up to meet increased food insecurity with free holiday meals and dignity‑based service models.

Here’s what’s happening

Read this especially if you want to understand how community groups respond to rising hunger, federal aid disruptions, and the stigma of food insecurity.

What’s Going On

With the financial stress of the holidays and the recent federal government shutdown, food insecurity in Ventura County has intensified.

Several local nonprofits have responded by organizing large-scale free Thanksgiving meal efforts to support struggling individuals and families.

Three major groups leading the response include:

• Camarillo Community Church, offering a food pantry with holiday selections.
• Ventura County Rescue Mission, hosting a sit-down banquet for hundreds.
• Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank, distributing turkeys and grocery gift cards using a dignified client-choice model.

Each group has reported a noticeable surge in demand. They anticipate record turnout and are working with volunteers, community donations, and Food Share partnerships to fill the gap.

How Each Organization Is Helping

🔸 Camarillo Community Church

Located at 1322 Las Posas Road, this church has a pantry operating under a “client-choice” system where families can pick food they actually need, including seasonal items like cranberry sauce, boxed stuffing, and turkeys.

Pantry director Meredith Hurtado expects at least 200 families and noted increased visits from workers at Naval Base Ventura County affected by the shutdown.

She expressed concern about cuts to SNAP benefits and emphasized the importance of serving with dignity, not judgment.

🔸 Ventura County Rescue Mission

For over five decades, this Oxnard-based faith organization has provided hot meals during the holidays.

This year, they expect to serve 400 to 500 people at their Thanksgiving meal on November 26.

Director Michael Darden stressed the importance of giving guests a warm, restaurant-style experience.

Volunteers and staff begin preparing meals days in advance to create a communal environment of care and respect.

🔸 Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank

Based in Thousand Oaks, Manna will be giving away more than 200 turkeys and grocery store gift cards this year.

They also operate a client-choice pantry, offering produce and shelf-stable items arranged like a traditional grocery store.

Executive Director Anthony Linquata said demand has doubled recently and expects the holiday surge to last into the new year.

Why This Matters

The combination of economic strain, housing pressures, and cuts to federal aid is driving more people than ever to food pantries.

These local nonprofits aren't just handing out food, they are providing dignity, choice, and community support.

The client-choice model helps eliminate food waste and empower recipients.

The stories of people who feel ashamed to seek help show the ongoing stigma around poverty that still needs to be addressed.

Why You Should Care

If you care about how local communities address poverty, food insecurity, or how faith-based and independent nonprofits are stepping in where federal programs fall short, this story gives you a clear window into that reality.

You’ll also learn how systemic issues like military pay gaps and SNAP reductions hit local families, and how kindness and support can transform someone’s holiday.