Hunger happens, even in Moorpark, and the food pantry needs your help

Unless you're living in a cocoon, you know that the U.S. economy is experiencing a slowdown.

This time, it's also being felt in Moorpark and the surrounding area. It might not be quite as severe here as in other parts of California and across the nation, but we're not immune.

In fact, it's more troubling here than we imagine because it's easily overlooked. Despite the fact that most of us still have jobs and continue to enjoy the good life we're accustomed to, hunger can and does happen, even in Moorpark, the Santa Rosa Valley and the surrounding unincorporated parts of the county. And it occurs quicker than we think it does.

It might be happening in your neighborhood.

When somebody loses a job or experiences a sudden health problem or is in an accident, things change almost overnight.

In the blink of an eye, a family in an upscale area, even living in a spacious home, is spending more than it's earning. Savings accounts and other assets quickly disappear.

For pride or whatever reason, people who've never relied on food stamps or welfare programs might try keeping it a secret that they're in trouble. They may refuse to tell others about their plight, even their immediate family members and friends. Senior citizens, especially, often hide their hunger, but they will go for help when the cupboards are bare.

Catholic Charities' Moorpark Food Pantry, our local food bank, is facing unprecedented demand for provisions. They need help, especially as the holidays approach. Moorpark Food Pantry is at 609 Fitch Ave., behind the Police Services Center. Bring food or send a check. Call (805) 529-0720 for more information or visit www.catholiccharitiesla.org

Next week it will be Thanksgiving, and Christmas and Hanukkah are only a few weeks away. Let's make sure that nobody goes hungry.

Thanks for whatever you can do.