SoCalGas To Provide Weekend Backpacks to 200 Students in Imperial Valley
Imperial, CA– SoCalGas announced a $40,000 donation to Imperial Valley Food Bank (IVFB), as part of the company’s $4 million dollar “Fueling Our Communities” initiative. A check presentation ceremony was held at the Imperial Valley Food Bank during the food bank’s Palate, Palette & Pallet (P3) event on October 26th.
For far too many Imperial County children, school breakfasts and lunches are their main source of meals. While 75 percent of children are eligible for free or reduced cost meals at school, thousands face empty cupboards at home, returning each Monday morning in a state of crisis. Through the Weekend Backpack Program, schools identify the most at-risk students who are then given food to fill their backpacks on Fridays when they leave school.
The donation from SoCalGas will provide nourishing food to 200 children facing food insecurity for a year. The Weekend Backpack Program relies exclusively on community support from businesses, foundations, and community members. IVFB is currently raising funds to feed approximately 900 students every Friday during the 2023-2024 school year. With a donation of $200, community members can sponsor a child for the year.
“We are grateful that SoCalGas saw a tangible need in our community and sprang into action to support children in Imperial County facing food insecurity,” said Sara Griffen, Executive Director of IVFB.
To commemorate this significant donation, SoCalGas and IVFB hosted a public check ceremony at the Imperial Valley Food Bank’s P3 event, which included an art show, wine tasing, and live music. This event provided an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate SoCalGas’ commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable students in Imperial Valley.
"We are thrilled to partner with Imperial Valley Food Bank and contribute to their Weekend Backpack program," said Deborah McGarrey, Public Affairs Manager for SoCalGas. "Our donation reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the well-being of children in the communities we serve. By working together, we can make a meaningful impact to address food insecurity and ensure that children have access to nutritious meals."
SoCalGas is dedicated to its role as a responsible corporate citizen and recognizes the importance of community involvement. Through initiatives like this donation, SoCalGas actively supports organizations that make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families, particularly in times of need.
For more information about Imperial Valley Food Bank’s programs, please visit www.ivfoodbank.org or contact (760) 370-0966.
About Southern California Gas Company
The Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) has been delivering clean, safe, and reliable natural gas to its customers for over 150 years. With a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable energy solutions, SoCalGas aims to enhance the quality of life for its customers and the communities it serves.