LASA gathered in March to consider food insecurity in LA and the practices spaces like the Hollywood Food Coalition use to connect food with guests. And, despite a bit of rain, LASA picked 700 pounds of oranges from The Huntington grove for the Coalition.
Patrick Hudnut – LASA alum and member of the Hollywood Food Coalition’s administrative team – answered so many of LASA’s questions. The students led the day, prepared their questions, and engaged in a terrific conversation with Patrick.
After sharing lunch, we then met with Carola Di Poi of The Huntington’s Botanical team. She was so generous with her time and knowledge of the grove as well as the teaching kitchen garden and the Ranch. We filled Patrick’s car with oranges and he spirited them off to the Coalition.
LASA student Alondra reflected, “I had an amazing time today. It was definitely one of my top 3 LASA days which I didn’t think it would be considering we were doing “work”.
The conversation with Patrick and questionnaire we prepared was extremely interesting and sparked a desire in volunteering. I believe it would feel like we made a difference. Picking the oranges was very very cold because of the water and cold air, but it was extremely fun. Seeing the field of trees that the Huntington has was fascinating…Then to add, their garden was BEAUTIFUL. I am extremely grateful to have brought things home for my family to see and eat! (Green beans were delicious!)”
We are grateful to Patrick Hudnut, Carola Di Poi, and Randy Shulman for helping us make the day happen. See you in April, LASA students!