The Jamie Lee Curtis Project Angel Food initiative achieved a significant milestone on Saturday, as Project Angel Food’s Lead with Love: LA Strong telethon raised almost $722,000 to support meal deliveries in Los Angeles County. The event, held in response to the devastating January wildfires, was broadcast on KTLA and featured a host of Hollywood personalities lending support to the cause.
Community Unites Through Televised Fundraiser
The two-hour telethon was hosted by Eric McCormack, Jessica Holmes, Loni Love, and Bianca Del Rio of RuPaul’s Drag Race, focusing on stories of resilience and solidarity amid widespread wildfire damage in Los Angeles earlier this year. Since its founding in 1989, Project Angel Food has become a critical resource, preparing and delivering 1.5 million meals annually to over 6,240 individuals dealing with serious health challenges across Los Angeles County.
Hollywood Support and Personal Tributes
A highlight of the event was a pre-recorded message from Barbra Streisand.
“We can lift people up. We can lead with love. … Ensuring everyone living with HIV/AIDS knows we are with them, no matter what — there is a place for them.”
—Barbra Streisand, Musician.
Jamie Lee Curtis, who serves as chair for Project Angel’s Rise to the Challenge capital campaign, participated by touring the organization’s new kitchen. CEO Richard Ayoub honored her contributions by announcing that the volunteer orientation room would bear her name. The involvement of stars like Curtis and Streisand was recognized by executive producer Brad Bessey, who commented,
“Fire might destroy homes, but it can’t destroy the human spirit. Lead with Love: LA Strong captured the resilience, humanity, and heart of Los Angeles at its best,”
—Brad Bessey, Telethon Executive Producer. He further added,
“I am deeply humbled by the Hollywood community’s incredible generosity, particularly, as a life-long fan, Ms. Streisand’s swift and powerful response.”
—Brad Bessey, Telethon Executive Producer.
Richard Ayoub also reflected on the night’s importance, saying,
“In our six-year history, no other show has embodied Project Angel Food’s mission of delivering hope, healing and unwavering support more profoundly. We are grateful to KTLA and City National Bank for making this night possible.”
—Richard Ayoub, CEO.
Collaborative Efforts and Sponsors’ Role
The telethon was made possible through the combined efforts of producers Brad Bessey, Richard Ayoub, Michael Levitt, KTLA’s Marcus Smith, Jacob Burch, Chris Reilly, and Mark McBride. Essential financial and logistical support came from key sponsors, including City National Bank, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino and Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation (who sponsored the Yaamava’ Performance Stage), the Herb Ritts Foundation, The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, and the Ralphs/Food4Less Foundation.
Impact and Future Outlook for Project Angel Food
The Jamie Lee Curtis Project Angel Food campaign’s success in rallying the Hollywood community demonstrates powerful support for those affected by wildfires and critical illness in Los Angeles. With the substantial funds raised and recognition from figures like Streisand and Curtis, Project Angel Food is equipped to continue its mission, supporting thousands with nutritious meals and hope as recovery efforts move forward in the city.
