SoCalGas Partners with Labor Services to Tackle Hunger in Los Angeles County
In an inspiring initiative to combat food insecurity, Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) has partnered once again with Labor Community Services (LCS) for the 33rd Annual National Association of Letter Carriers' (NALC) 'Stamp Out Hunger' Food Drive. This year, SoCalGas has mobilized 100 eager volunteers to assist in sorting through the staggering amount of over 1 million pounds of food donations collected across Los Angeles County. Furthermore, to enhance the support given to thousands of families facing food shortages, SoCalGas has generously contributed a $25,000 donation to LCS to procure additional food essentials.
Yvonne Wheeler, president of the LA County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, expressed her gratitude, stating, "The 'Stamp Out Hunger' food drive exemplifies the essence of solidarity in action. Thanks to the relentless dedication of NALC Branch 24, Labor Community Services, SoCalGas, and countless volunteers, we are bringing vital nourishment and hope to thousands of families during these pressing times."
Norma López, executive director of LCS, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of building community support systems. "With the backing of SoCalGas and our partners, we aren't merely sorting food; we're establishing a safety net for families who require it the most."
Maryam Brown, the president of SoCalGas, highlighted the company's commitment to making a difference, stating, "We believe that building a stronger community commences with addressing basic needs, including effectively tackling hunger. We take pride in teaming up with LCS and the labor community to eradicate hunger and uplift families in the greater Los Angeles area."
The issue of hunger persists as a significant concern in Los Angeles County. According to findings from a USC Dornsife study conducted towards the end of 2024, approximately one in four households, translating to around 832,000 individuals, faced challenges in securing enough food for their families. Additionally, a staggering 29% of households struggled with consistent access to healthy and nutritious food. These alarming statistics underline the critical role of initiatives such as the 'Stamp Out Hunger' Food Drive, particularly during the summer months when school meal programs are not in operation and food donations tend to drop significantly.
Coordinated by NALC Branch 24 in partnership with LCS and an array of AFL-CIO-affiliated labor unions, this year’s food drive involves 38 post offices and 20 community partners, embodying a collective effort to alleviate hunger.
For over 60 years, LCS has provided support to union families, offering groceries and emergency assistance through food pantries, holiday food distributions, and more. Since 2007, SoCalGas has maintained its commitment to supporting LCS, and in 2024 alone, SoCalGas volunteers helped in sorting 80,000 pounds of food, which effectively aided around 3,280 families in need.
In addition to their charitable initiatives, SoCalGas offers various programs designed to assist customers in managing their natural gas usage, ultimately saving energy and costs. For homeowners looking to reduce their expenses, SoCalGas provided a noteworthy $10.2 million in charitable contributions in 2024, including a substantial $5.3 million dedicated specifically to social impact projects.
Individuals interested in contributing to the cause by volunteering with LCS can sign up through their website at lcs-la.org. LCS is also actively accepting donations, with just $40 capable of providing a family of five with meals for five days.
About SoCalGas: As the largest gas distribution utility in the United States, SoCalGas serves over 21 million customers across approximately 24,000 square miles in Central and Southern California, dedicated to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable energy. Recognized for its outstanding community involvement, SoCalGas has earned titles such as Corporate Member of the Year from the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce. For more information, please visit SoCalGas.com/newsroom or connect on social media @SoCalGas.
About LCS: Partnering with the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor for over six decades, LCS is committed to assisting underemployed and unemployed union families. They strive to alleviate their struggles by providing essential groceries year-round and supporting their efforts through various food distribution initiatives. LCS stands by working families, offering vital resources aimed at improving their quality of life.