Jaden Smith Expands Mission to Feed Unhoused Residents on Los Angeles' Skid Row

Jaden Smith says his long-term dream is simple: ensure that no one living on Los Angeles’ Skid Row has to wonder where their next meal is coming from.

The actor, musician and entrepreneur recently shared his vision of creating a permanent facility on Skid Row that would provide free breakfast, lunch and dinner to unhoused residents while also creating jobs and fostering a sense of community. Smith discussed the goal during recent interviews highlighting his ongoing philanthropic efforts.

Known as one of the nation’s largest concentrations of homelessness, Skid Row has long faced challenges related to housing insecurity, food access and public health. Smith, a Southern California native, said addressing those issues has remained close to his heart for years.

The 27-year-old has already taken steps toward that vision through his nonprofit initiative, I Love You Restaurant. Launched in 2019 as a food truck operation, the project provides free vegan meals and bottled water to people experiencing homelessness while encouraging paying customers to help support the effort.

According to Smith, the organization’s larger goal is to establish a permanent headquarters capable of serving three free meals every day while expanding its reach to communities across the country.

Smith’s commitment to service extends beyond food distribution. He previously co-founded JUST Water, a company focused on improving access to clean drinking water and promoting environmental sustainability.

In discussing his work, Smith said he hopes to remain directly involved with helping those in need rather than operating solely behind the scenes. He has emphasized the importance of community partnerships, volunteers and outreach organizations working together to address homelessness and food insecurity.

The initiative reflects a growing trend of celebrities using their platforms to tackle social issues through direct service and nonprofit work. While Smith's vision for a permanent Skid Row facility has not yet become a reality, he says the project remains his ultimate goal as he continues expanding the I Love You Restaurant mission.

This story is based on reporting originally published by Black Enterprise and additional reporting from People magazine.