Neighbor News
15-Year-Old Leads Thanksgiving Meal Drive to Support Families Facing Hardship in Long Beach
By Ella's Angels Foundation (Community Contributor)
This Thanksgiving, families across Long Beach are feeling the impact of rising grocery prices and reduced assistance programs. Many have found themselves wondering how they will afford a holiday meal at all.
But one local student has decided that no one in her community should face the holidays alone.
Ella Shahbazian, a 15-year-old sophomore and founder of the youth-led nonprofit Ella’s Angels, is organizing a Thanksgiving meal drive to provide full Thanksgiving dinners at no cost to families experiencing financial hardship. Each meal includes turkey, sides, and dessert so families can gather with dignity, warmth, and comfort.
Last year, Ella and her volunteers helped feed over 100 families. This year, the need has grown. More parents have reached out quietly asking for help. More families have lost SNAP benefits or are facing unexpected financial strain. Ella has expanded the effort to reach even more households across the community.
“When someone is struggling, they rarely announce it,” Ella said. “Sometimes all it takes to change their whole week is knowing that someone cares.”
Meal Distribution Details:Pickup will take place the week of Thanksgiving at Greater Harvest Church, located at 1144 Olive Ave, Long Beach, CA 90813. Families who need assistance can register confidentially at EllasAngels.org.
For community members who would like to support, donations of any kind help provide meals directly to local families. Contributions can be made at EllasAngels.org/Donate.
Ella hopes this year’s meal drive not only supports families with food, but also helps send a message of compassion and community:
“When we take care of each other, everybody wins. Even small acts can make a real difference.”
To Register for a Meal:https://EllasAngels.org
To Donate:https://EllasAngels.org/Donate
Contact:ella@ellasangels.orgInstagram: @EllasAngelsOrg
This holiday season, Ella and her team invite the community to come together to spread kindness, hope, and the belief that every family deserves a place at the table.
