The PG&E Corporation Foundation reports it 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, including $150,300 in the inland North State.
The total 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 Co.’s service area, including eight food banks and senior meal programs in the North State.
The North State Food Bank, serving Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Plumas and Sierra counties, will receive $63,700.
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, 1 in 5 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,” said Timothy Hawkins, CEO of the Community Action Agency of Butte County. “Through their generous support, the North State Food Bank has increased its cold storage capacity and supply of fresh and shelf-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 that receive food, creating a greater collaborative impact for our communities.”
“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 Joe Wilson, vice president of PG&E’s North Valley and Sierra Region and Plumas County native.
Grant amounts consider county poverty and unemployment levels, using the California Department of Social Services’ formula, to promote equity among counties with higher need, says the foundation.
PG&E also opens community resource centers during public safety power shutoff events to provide basic supplies, charging stations and information to customers. Transportation support and hotel accommodations and discounts may also be available. More information is available online and customers can also sign up for outage alerts.
Information provided by Pacific Gas and Electric Co.