Central California Food Bank photo via nmtccoalition.org

In an effort to combat the growing number of individuals and families struggling with food insecurity, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) is contributing $1 million to local food banks, including more than $145,000 earmarked for sites in Fresno, Kings, Madera and Tulare counties.

The company will provide the equivalent of about 3 million meals for individuals and families, supporting 38 different food banks representing 47 counties in the company’s Northern and Central California service area.

PG&E and The PG&E Corporation Foundation (the PG&E Foundation) has provided three contributions to food banks since September, totaling more than $2.3 million.

PG&E’s local contributions will include:

• $93,369 to Central California Food Bank (Fresno County)
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• $14,830 to Kings Community Action Organization (Kings County)
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• $32,400 to Madera County Food Bank (Madera County)
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• $5,000 to Foodlink for Tulare County (Tulare County)

 

Officials with the California Association of Food Banks said that record-breaking numbers of households are seeking assistance — the highest numbers since the pandemic.

“California food banks experienced an unexpected surge in need during the fall. So, we reached out for help on their behalf and PG&E responded,” said CEO of California Association of Food Banks Stacia Levenfeld. “Their $1 million gift to food banks throughout Northern and Central California will have a meaningful impact on the lives of millions of people, and help food banks continue their critical work in our communities.”

The donation to Fresno County’s Central California Food Bank (CCFB) represents the largest of Valley Food Bank contributions. Annually, CCFB serves over 300,000 individuals monthly, including over 100,000 children.

Kern County also saw a large contribution to Community Action Partnership of Kern Foundation — $84,220 — marking the second-largest Central Valley commitment from the utility.

“We are grateful to help Central Valley food banks fulfill their mission during this time of increasing demand, especially as more families and seniors are struggling after the expenses of the holiday season,” said Josh Simes, PG&E regional vice president of the Central Valley. “Our longstanding partnership with the California Association of Food Banks supports the safety net that is our local food banks.”

Funding for the contributions came from PG&E shareholders, not customers, with additional funding coming from the PG&E Foundation.