PG&E Foundation Grants $1.32 Million to Local Food Banks

Oakland, Calif. – The PG&E Corporation Foundation (PG&E Foundation) has awarded $1.32 million to assist more than 50 food banks, tribal food banks, and senior meal programs across 45 counties. This funding is expected to help provide the equivalent of approximately 3.13 million meals to families and individuals in need throughout California, a state where one in five residents experiences food insecurity.

The grant distribution coincides with Hunger Action Month, a nationwide effort to raise awareness and combat hunger. The contribution is funded by PG&E shareholders and is not recovered through customer rates.

Grant amounts are determined based on county poverty and unemployment levels, utilizing a formula from the California Department of Social Services, to promote equity among counties with higher need.

"Food banks are often on the front lines when a crisis strikes, and meeting a sudden surge in need requires more than food alone. It takes the resources, people and partnerships to respond quickly and effectively," said Stacia Levenfeld, CEO of the California Association of Food Banks. She highlighted the value of partners like PG&E who understand the strength in collective response during times of need.

Over the past six years, PG&E has contributed more than $8 million to organizations fighting hunger. The company also maintains agreements with 25 food banks in high fire-risk areas to provide food replacement during and after Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). These shutoffs may be implemented due to dry, windy weather conditions to prevent wildfires. PG&E also opens community resource centers during PSPS events to offer supplies and charging stations.