More than 130 households were served during Esperanza’s most recent food distribution in November, marking a record for the community-based organization and reflecting the growing level of need in the neighborhood. 

This Food Drive stood out for its collaboration with two key partners: CareerLink and Esperanza’s Housing Department. While families received fresh food and basic groceries, CareerLink provided free clothing, including winter coats, and Esperanza’s Housing team assisted residents with LIHEAP applications, a program that helps households with heating costs. The event functioned as a true one-stop hub for essential services. 

“It felt like a complete solution for our neighbors, just in time for the coldest months,” said Pachi Suárez, Esperanza’s Community Engagement Associate. 

The distribution included a wide variety of food items such as cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, fruits, bread, yogurt, and other essential products, helping families supplement their meals during the holiday season. 

In addition to the high number of households served, the event was notable for the participation of new families. While most attendees were Spanish-speaking residents, there was also an increase in English-speaking participants and young people, highlighting the impact of community outreach efforts, block captains, and local partnerships. 

One of the main goals of the event was to share clear and accessible information. A bilingual (English/Spanish) flyer was distributed listing food distributions available seven days a week within a one-mile radius of Esperanza’s campus. 

“When people know that free food is available every day, it reduces the feeling of scarcity and allows them to make decisions with less pressure,” Suárez added. 

This initiative comes at a time when many families are facing increased barriers to accessing programs such as SNAP and Medicaid, due to changes in eligibility requirements and processes. As part of its response, Esperanza reminds SNAP recipients that they can contact Community Legal Services at 215-981-3700 for guidance on new work requirements or possible medical exemptions. 

Esperanza’s food distributions are traditionally held on the second Thursday of each month. After the seasonal pause in December, distributions will resume in January 2026. 

The team’s closing message was clear: talk to your neighbors, take care of one another, and stay informed, especially during a time when conditions are changing week by week. 

Additionally, Ramar Huntley, a data coordinator at Esperanza, analyzed SNAP (food stamp) data using previously established datasets. The accompanying map visualization shows the estimated percentage of families receiving Food Stamps/SNAP benefits between 2019 and 2023. 

The areas served by Esperanza are home to a large percentage of households enrolled in SNAP, with 57% reporting being enrolled in SNAP in ZIP code 19140 alone.  of Another one of Esperanza’s service areas, ZIP code 19133, shows an estimated 66% of families receiving SNAP benefits. By comparison, the overall percentage of Philadelphia residents receiving SNAP benefits during the same period was 31.1%. 

For more information about Esperanza’s programs and services, visit www.esperanza.us.