At Penny Lane’s Community and Family Resource Centers, every event is an opportunity to empower individuals, strengthen families, and build healthier communities. Whether providing access to essential resources, educational workshops, or opportunities for connection, our North Hills and Antelope Valley teams remain committed to meeting families where they are and creating meaningful experiences that promote well-being and resilience. Through the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and community partners, we continue to foster environments where families feel supported, informed, and connected.
This month, we are proud to highlight two impactful events that reflect the heart of our CFRC mission. From helping families access nutritious food through a community food distribution event to equipping participants with life-saving skills during a CPR workshop, these programs demonstrate how practical resources and education can make a lasting difference. We invite you to take a look back at these inspiring moments and celebrate the partnerships, learning opportunities, and community spirit that continue to strengthen the lives of those we serve.
The CFRC Community and Family Resource Center proudly hosted its first Food Bank distribution for the community this past month. Prior to the event, dedicated Penny Lane staff invested significant time and effort in purchasing food items, organizing supplies, and carefully assembling food boxes to ensure families received meaningful and sustainable support. Their commitment and teamwork helped make the event welcoming, organized, and impactful for the community members served.
Families, older adults, and individuals lined up before the doors opened, demonstrating the growing need for accessible food resources within the community. CFRC staff warmly greeted each guest, creating an environment of dignity, compassion, and support as community members received boxes filled with sustainable food items to help nourish themselves and their families.
This event addressed an important Social Determinant of Health—food insecurity and economic stability—by helping reduce barriers to accessing nutritious food. Staff also provided carts for older adults and individuals with disabilities so they could safely transport their food to their vehicles or homes, ensuring accessibility and support for vulnerable populations. The gratitude expressed by community members throughout the event highlighted the meaningful impact of coming together to support one another during times of need.
Beyond providing food, the distribution event served as an opportunity to connect community members with additional resources and services available through CFRC. Staff engaged with attendees, shared information about upcoming workshops and support programs, and reinforced the message that no one has to navigate challenges alone. By creating a welcoming space where individuals felt seen, valued, and supported, the event reflected CFRC’s ongoing commitment to addressing both immediate needs and long-term community wellness. As demand for these services continues to grow, Penny Lane remains dedicated to expanding opportunities that foster stability, health, and hope for the families we serve.
Through events like these, CFRC continues to strengthen community connections, promote wellbeing, and provide essential resources that help families thrive. This successful first food distribution marks an exciting step forward in expanding support services and ensuring that community members have access to the resources they need to live healthy, empowered lives.
Check out some more photos below!
On May 16, 2026, the Community and Family Resource Center (CFRC) at Penny Lane Centers North Hills hosted a CPR and First Aid training led by CFRC Case Managers Anna Macedo and Rocio Torres. The workshop was designed to equip community members with essential lifesaving skills and practical knowledge that can be used to respond confidently during emergencies.
Recognizing that emergencies can happen at any time, the training focused on increasing participants’ preparedness and confidence in providing assistance when it matters most. Presented entirely in Spanish, the class ensured that community members could fully engage with the material, ask questions, and develop a deeper understanding of emergency response techniques in a language that felt accessible and comfortable.
In addition to receiving hands-on instruction, participants were provided with first aid kits to support their continued preparedness at home and in their communities. Upon completion of the training, attendees also received certificates from the American Red Cross, recognizing their commitment to learning these valuable skills.
Workshops like this reflect CFRC’s ongoing commitment to promoting health, safety, and community empowerment. By providing education, resources, and opportunities for skill-building, Penny Lane continues to strengthen the capacity of individuals and families to care for themselves and support others, helping create safer and more resilient communities for all.
