PG&E Helps Battle Food Insecurity with Contributions to Local Food Banks, Meal Distribution Organizations

This is a press release from Pacific Gas and Electric Company:

The PG&E Corporation Foundation (The PG&E Foundation) is providing $1.3 million to local food banks, tribal food banks and senior meal programs to help feed individuals and families struggling with food insecurity.

The contribution is the equivalent of approximately 2.67 million meals for individuals and families in need. The funding will support 52 food distribution organizations representing 45 counties in Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s (PG&E) service area.

The contribution comes during Hunger Action Month, a nationwide effort to raise awareness about hunger in America and inspire action to combat it. According to the California Association of Food Banks, while California produces nearly half of the nation’s fruits and vegetables, on average, one in five residents do not know where their next meal will come from. Communities of color face even higher levels of hunger.

“PG&E has been a consistent major supporter of Community Action’s North State Food Bank for the last half decade. Through their generous support the North State Food Bank has increased its cold storage capacity and supply of fresh and stable foods that are distributed throughout our 8,000 square-mile service region. Their support has been great towards increasing the food bank’s purchasing power and for the hundreds of families who receive food, creating a greater collaborative impact for our communities,” said Timothy Hawkins, CEO, Community Action of Butte County.

“We’re grateful for our ongoing partnership with food banks and meal distribution organizations that provide a critical safety net to families struggling to make ends meet. These local food support organizations fulfill a critical role in ensuring individuals and families are fed, can lead a healthy life and reach their full potential,” said Carla Peterman, Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs, PG&E Corporation and Chari of The PG&E Corporation Foundation Board.

Grant amounts consider county poverty and unemployment levels, using the California Department of Social Services’ formula, to promote equity among counties with higher need.