Alice Harris, widely known as "Sweet Alice," hosted her annual 4th of July community giveaway in Watts this year, continuing a tradition of service that has spanned decades. At 92 years old, Harris distributed food, clothing, and household items to local families, maintaining the operations of her nonprofit, Parents of Watts.
Who is Sweet Alice Harris?
Alice Harris is a longtime community activist in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. She founded the nonprofit organization Parents of Watts in the 1960s after witnessing a child in her neighborhood struggling to find food. Since that time, she has become a fixture in the community, organizing regular food drives, holiday giveaways, and youth support programs. According to ABC7 Los Angeles, her efforts have provided essential resources to thousands of residents over the past 50 years.
What is the 4th of July Giveaway?
The annual 4th of July event is one of several recurring initiatives run by Parents of Watts. During the event, Harris and a team of volunteers provide resources including:
- Groceries and fresh produce
- Clothing and shoes
- Household goods
- School supplies for local students
The event serves as both a distribution point for necessities and a community gathering. Harris has stated in previous interviews that her goal is to ensure that families in Watts have access to basic support during holidays when many social services may be closed.
Why does the work in Watts matter?
The Watts neighborhood has historically faced significant economic challenges, including high rates of poverty and food insecurity. Organizations like Parents of Watts fill gaps for residents who may not have consistent access to grocery stores or affordable clothing.
Harris’s longevity in the community has made her a recognized figure in Los Angeles civil rights and social service history. Her work is frequently cited as an example of grassroots, resident-led advocacy. Despite her advanced age, Harris remains the primary face of her organization, personally overseeing the distribution of goods at the 103rd Street location where she has operated for years.
How to support Parents of Watts
Parents of Watts relies on donations from the public and corporate partners to fund its ongoing programs. The organization accepts:
- Monetary contributions via their official website
- Donations of non-perishable food items
- Gently used clothing and household goods
The organization continues to operate throughout the year, not just during holiday events, providing emergency assistance to families facing eviction or immediate financial crisis.