AUBURN, CA (MPG) - The PG&E Corporation Foundation (The PG&E Foundation) is providing $1.3 million to local food banks, tribal food banks and senior meal programs to help feed individuals and families struggling with food insecurity, including $135,600 in the Greater Sacramento Area.

The total contribution is the equivalent of approximately 2.67 million meals for individuals and families in need. The funding will support 52 food distribution organizations representing 45 counties in Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s (PG&E) service area, including eight food banks and senior meal programs in the Greater Sacramento Area.

Meals on Wheels of Yolo County, $7,500

Yolo Food Bank, $16,200

Food Bank of El Dorado County, $20,250.

Food Bank of Nevada County, $13,150

Placer Food Bank, $19,700

Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services, $20,000

Emergency Food Bank of Stockton, $19,400

Second Harvest Food Bank of San Joaquin and Stanislaus Counties, $19,400

The contribution comes during Hunger Action Month, a nationwide effort to raise awareness about hunger in America and inspire action to combat it. According to the California Association of Food Banks, while California produces nearly half of the nation’s fruits and vegetables, on average, one in five residents do not know where their next meal will come from. Communities of color face even higher levels of hunger.

“Yolo Food Bank is deeply grateful for the generous support from PG&E and PG&E Foundation’s Community Resilience Fund, which helps communities facing the growing threats of climate-driven extreme weather events,” said Yolo Food Bank Executive Director Karen Baker. “In times of crisis and while facing the day-to-day challenge of securing the food people need, PG&E understands our community. This funding enables us to ensure that our most vulnerable neighbors continue to access vital food and resources by leveraging our strong network of partners who bolster Yolo County’s social safety net.”

“We’re grateful for our ongoing partnership with food banks and meal distribution organizations that provide a critical safety net to families struggling to make ends meet. These local food support organizations fulfill a critical role in ensuring individuals and families are fed, can lead a healthy life and reach their full potential,” said

Grant amounts consider county poverty and unemployment levels, using the California Department of Social Services’ formula, to promote equity among counties with higher need.

Supporting Emergency Preparedness

In addition to the support for local food banks throughout PG&E’s service area, the company has agreements with 25 local food banks in high fire-risk areas to provide food replacement during and up to three days after a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). These Public Safety Power Shutoff events may be called when dry, windy weather is forecast, and PG&E may need to turn off power in certain areas to prevent wildfires and keep customers safe.

You can find a local food bank in your county here. Check with your local food bank to learn if they have income restrictions. Food is available why supplies last.

Meals on Wheels delivers meals to seniors enrolled in the program. Seniors who are enrolled and experience a Public Safety Power Shutoff will receive an extra meal for each day of a PSPS outage. You can enroll in a Meals on Wheels in your area.

PG&E also opens Community Resource Centers during Public Safety Power Shutoff events to provide basic supplies, charging stations and information to customers. Transportation support and hotel accommodations and discounts may also be available.