LADF continues COVID-19 relief efforts
by Erin Edwards
The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) understands that during these times it is imperative to be “bigger than baseball.” Under the leadership of CEO Nichol Whiteman, the foundation is taking a leadership role in not only helping flatten the curve of COVID-19 throughout our communities, but also by doubling down to offer assistance to the most vulnerable among us during this crisis.
In partnership with the Dodgers and iHeartMedia Los Angeles, LADF is continuing to raise money through its emergency fund to support Angelenos who are experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, lack of basic needs and significant anxiety during this uncertain time. Initial grants have already been directed to the Los Angeles Food Bank, My Friend’s Place and the Mayor’s Fund of Los Angeles.
LADF is also providing critical in-kind donations of food and basic needs to local organizations serving as “grab and go’s” for children and adults, as well as those on the front lines of this crisis.
In-kind donations have already been delivered to:
· Los Angeles Unified School District’s Grab & Go Food Centers: Prior to COVID-19, 80% of the 700,000 LAUSD students relied on school-based meal programs. LADF has deployed 16,800 bottles of water and sports drinks and 1000 bags of produce in support.
· LA Dream Center: As the threat of COVID-19 spreads, the Los Angeles Dream Center is currently serving over 12,000 meals a day to families in need. The Foundation has deployed over 5,000 meals in support.
· City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks: Prior to COVID-19, an estimated 58,936 people were homeless in LA County. Recreation centers have been converted into temporary homeless shelters in order to protect unhoused Dodger neighbors. Front line workers have expressed a dire need for towels to maintain the high levels of hygiene. LADF has deployed 2,700 towels in support.
· Healthcare Workers: The Foundation has deployed over 200 pizzas, gift cards for food and Dodger themed items to support healthcare workers at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center, and affiliated UCLA Health medical facilities; supporting not only workers’ physical well-being but offering some uplifting emotional support during this time of crisis.
More than 105,000 meals and $100,000 of in-kind donations have been provided as part of the efforts from LADF, iHeart Media Los Angeles, the Dodgers, players, and fans. However, there is more work ahead as we witness the impact that this pandemic continues to have on kids, families, low-income communities and nonprofit organizations working to respond.
At this time, LADF is asking supporters to join their efforts and go to bat for significantly impacted Angelenos.
Fans may make a donation today by visiting Dodgers COVID-19 Relief Efforts website or texting “RELIEF” to 41623. Every dollar counts.
To see photos from the activation's and for frequent updates, follow LADF on social media: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook.
