Hollywood stars unite for Project Angel Food’s wildfire relief, raising $722K
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The Lead with Love: LA Strong telethon brought Hollywood together for a vital cause, raising nearly $722,000 for Project Angel Food. Broadcast on KTLA, the two-hour event reflected the city’s resilience in the wake of the destructive wildfires that tore through parts of Los Angeles this January. Hosted by Eric McCormack, Jessica Holmes, Loni Love and Bianca Del Rio, the telethon showcased the power of community and celebrity influence when a city needs it most.
Project Angel Food
Founded in 1989 during the height of the AIDS epidemic, Project Angel Food has expanded its mission to prepare and deliver more than 1.5 million medically tailored meals annually. The organization supports over 6,200 critically ill people across Los Angeles County, many of whom have limited access to nutritious meals due to illness and poverty. Following January’s devastating wildfires, the need for consistent meal delivery has grown, as vulnerable residents continue to recover and rebuild.
Celebrity contributions
Hollywood’s backing proved vital for the success of this year’s telethon. In a heartfelt pre-recorded message, Barbra Streisand urged viewers to lead with compassion and solidarity. Her words echoed Project Angel Food’s long-standing mission to serve those living with HIV/AIDS and other serious illnesses, reminding supporters that no one should feel alone in their fight for survival.
Jamie Lee Curtis, a steadfast supporter and chair of the organization’s Rise to the Challenge capital campaign, appeared during the broadcast to tour Project Angel Food’s new kitchen. CEO Richard Ayoub revealed that the volunteer orientation room will bear Curtis’s name, recognizing her ongoing dedication to the cause. Bianca Del Rio, known for “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” brought humor and heart to the telecast, drawing fresh attention to the evening’s mission.
Community and corporate support
Alongside Hollywood’s star power, local businesses and major sponsors stepped up to ensure the telethon’s success. City National Bank, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino and the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation all contributed, helping fund the Yaamava’ Performance Stage. Additional support came from the Herb Ritts Foundation, The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation and Ralphs/Food4Less Foundation.
Executive producer Brad Bessey called the evening “a testament to the resilience, humanity and heart of Los Angeles,” expressing gratitude for the swift response from donors and the entertainment community. CEO Richard Ayoub highlighted how no other production has embodied Project Angel Food’s mission so profoundly.
As Los Angeles continues to recover from the wildfires, Project Angel Food’s commitment remains firm: delivering hope, nutrition and unwavering support to neighbors in need. The success of Lead with Love: LA Strong underscores what can happen when celebrities, corporate sponsors and local communities pull together for a common goal. With nearly $722,000 raised in one evening, the organization is set to keep expanding its services, proving once again that when a city leads with love, it can weather any storm.
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