A nonprofit organization in Southern California is providing support to illegal immigrant families who are living in fear due to immigration enforcement operations. The Ignite the Light of Hope Foundation, founded by Lorraine Aceves, has been delivering food directly to families’ front doors.

Addressing Hunger and Fear

The organization began its efforts during the pandemic and has since expanded its services to meet the growing needs of the community. Aceves was inspired to take action after receiving a phone call from a frightened little girl whose father, an illegal immigrant, was afraid to leave their home to work due to the risk of detention.

The nonprofit’s food delivery program, called Bags of Hope, has been serving families in the San Fernando Valley. At its peak, the program was serving about 42 families, or 121 people, each week. Although the number has dropped to about 10 families a week, the need for support remains.

One of the recipients, Oswaldo, who suffers from lung cancer, has been unable to work due to his immigration status and fear of detention. His wife has also reduced her work hours due to fear. The family has been relying on the nonprofit for support and a sense of relief.

Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.