Project Angel Food’s Lead with Love: LA Strong telethon was a huge success, raising nearly $722,000 for the meal delivery organization. The two-hour telecast aired on KTLA and was hosted by Eric McCormack, Jessica Holmes, Loni Love, and Bianca Del Rio from “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” The telethon focused on the resilience of the Los Angeles community following the devastating wildfires that hit the city in January.
Project Angel Food, which was established in 1989, prepares and delivers 1.5 million meals each year to over 6,240 critically ill individuals in Los Angeles County. The organization’s mission is to provide hope, healing, and unwavering support to those in need.
During the telethon, Barbra Streisand delivered a pre-recorded message emphasizing the importance of lifting people up and leading with love. Jamie Lee Curtis, chair of Project Angel’s Rise to the Challenge capital campaign, was featured touring the organization’s new kitchen, where CEO Richard Ayoub announced that the volunteer orientation room would be named in her honor.
Executive producer Brad Bessey expressed his gratitude for the Hollywood community’s generosity, with special mention to Barbra Streisand for her swift and powerful response. Ayoub also highlighted the significance of the telethon in embodying Project Angel Food’s core values.
The telethon was made possible by sponsors including City National Bank, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, Herb Ritts Foundation, The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, and Ralphs/Food4Less Foundation. The event was a collaborative effort with producers Michael Levitt, KTLA’s Marcus Smith, Jacob Burch, Chris Reilly, and Mark McBride at the helm.
The Lead with Love: LA Strong telethon truly captured the resilience, humanity, and heart of Los Angeles at its best. It was a testament to the spirit of the community and the unwavering support for those in need. Project Angel Food continues to make a difference in the lives of many, thanks to the generosity and support of its donors and volunteers.
