Shareholder-funded grants are expected to help provide the equivalent of more than 3.13 million meals
OAKLAND, California — In response to the food insecurity affecting one in five Californians, the PG&E Corporation Foundation (PG&E Foundation) is providing $1.32 million to local organizations on the front lines of the fight against hunger.
The funds will help more than 50 food banks, tribal food banks, and meal programs for seniors across 45 counties provide the equivalent of approximately 3.13 million meals to families and individuals in need.
The funding is being awarded during Hunger Action Month, a national initiative to raise awareness and combat hunger in the United States. This contribution is funded by PG&E shareholders and is not recovered through customer rates.
Grant amounts take into account poverty and unemployment levels in each county—using a formula from the California Department of Social Services—to promote equity among counties with the greatest needs.
“Food banks are often on the front lines when a crisis strikes, and responding to a sudden surge in need requires more than just food. Resources, people, and partnerships are essential to respond quickly and effectively,” said Stacia Levenfeld, Executive Director of the California Association of Food Banks. “We are deeply grateful to partners like PG&E, who understand that in times of need, we are stronger and better prepared when we respond together.”
These grants are being awarded at a time when food insecurity remains a persistent challenge in California. According to the California Association of Food Banks, one in five Californians—approximately 8.8 million people—reported experiencing food insecurity, even though the state produces nearly half of the nation’s fruits and vegetables. Food banks across the state are addressing record levels of need as families continue to face rising costs for housing, food, and other essentials. Communities of color, older adults, and working families are disproportionately affected, with many turning to food assistance for the first time.
“Families across California are facing difficult decisions as the costs of food, housing, and other essentials continue to rise,” said Carla Peterman, President of PG&E Corporation and Chair of the PG&E Corporation Foundation Board of Directors. “These grants will help local food banks provide immediate assistance in the communities they know best. Over the past six years, we have contributed more than $8 million to organizations fighting hunger, and we remain committed to helping our neighbors get the food they need.”
Support for emergency preparedness
In addition to supporting local food banks within PG&E’s service area, the company has agreements with 25 local food banks in high fire-risk zones to provide food replacement during and for up to three days following a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event. These PSPS events may be implemented when dry, windy conditions are forecast, and PG&E may need to turn off power in certain areas to prevent wildfires and keep customers safe.
You can find a food bank in your county here. Check with your local food bank to see if there are income restrictions. Food is available while supplies last.
Meals on Wheels delivers meals to older adults enrolled in the program. Enrolled older adults who experience a Public Safety Power Shutoff will receive an additional meal for each day the emergency outage lasts. You can sign up for Meals on Wheels in your area.
PG&E also opens Community Resource Centers during PSPS events to provide customers with basic supplies, charging stations, and information. Transportation support, hotel accommodations, and discounts may also be available. You can find more information here and sign up for power outage alerts.
