Project Shepherd

What is Project Shepherd?

Project Shepherd is a non-profit organization run by the City of Lakewood and the Rotary Club of Lakewood.

Since 1972, this neighbor-to-neighbor assistance program has collected canned goods, dry staples, toys, backpacks and personal care items to distribute to Lakewood families in need throughout the year and around the holiday season.

Project Shepherd programs to help families in need

December holiday toy and food drive

Project Shepherd's holiday program for low-income Lakewood residents helps provide the fixings for a holiday meal and toys for children through the Teddy Bear Tree and virtual canned food and toy drive.

Summer backpack giveaway

Each summer, Project Shepherd collects new backpacks and school supplies to distribute to low-income families with school-age children in Lakewood registered in the program.

Emergency food and utility bill support

Project Shepherd's year-round emergency food pantry is precious to the people it serves every week of the year. The resource benefits hundreds of Lakewood families in crisis annually.

Scholarships for recreation programs

Scholarships are available for residents with low income who would like to participate in recreation programs with the City of Lakewood.

Get help from Project Shepherd

Lakewood residents in need, including families and seniors, have been served with emergency food, utility bill assistance, holiday food and gifts and other specialty requests. Here's how to apply for help.

Volunteer or donate to Project Shepherd

Be a Project Shepherd volunteer, or donate canned goods, backpacks or toys to our annual campaigns. Financial support is always welcome. Here's how you can get involved.

Project Shepherd 2026/2027 Sponsors

Platinum Sponsors

Ryan Tax Firm, Albertsons/Vons/Pavilions, Walmart, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn

Gold Sponsors

F&M Bank, Lakewood Family YMCA