As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to reshape daily life and routines, LAFC and the LAFC Foundation have teamed up to launch the Black & Gold Community Fund. The charitable arm is designed to support the club’s community, whether it’s ticketed members, part-time staffers or small businesses surrounding Banc of California Stadium.
“LAFC, the LAFC Foundation and Banc of California Stadium are committed to being a force for good in Los Angeles now more than ever,” said LAFC president and co-owner Tom Penn in a statement. “Through the launch of Black & Gold Community Fund, we aim to provide support to those in our community who need it most.”
Initiatives behind the Black & Gold Community Relief Fund include financial assistance, fresh produce and perishable food items, access to free personal protective equipment (PPE) and additional opportunities.
In coordination with the 3252 Independent Supporters Union, they’re donating 20,000 medical masks to members of the LAFC community. As for food donations, they’ll be providing fresh produce boxes from local farmers to over 4,400 families in need. The program is expected to feed 1,100 families weekly for the next four weeks, and there will be personal protective gear provided for the volunteers distributing the boxes.
Further, LAFC and the LAFC Foundation have teamed up with American Red Cross and Banc of California to host two blood drives (May 8) and (May 28) at their stadium.
That’s in addition to the Black & Gold Emergency Relief Fund, which helps those who have been adversely impacted by the postponement of the 2020 MLS season. So far, the LAFC Foundation has pledged $60,000 and the 3252 Independent Supporters Union has pledged $7,000. All applications will be reviewed by the LAFC Force for Good Committee.
Other fundraising efforts for LAFC include the Stadium Strong Campaign, an online fundraising initiative from season ticket members that aims to raise at least $22,000 to represent every seat in Banc of California Stadium. The LAFC Foundation will match each donation up to $22,000. They’ve also launched the LAFC Charity Challenge Series, a 10-game FIFA 20 gaming challenge that's streamed live to support the Black & Gold Community Fund.
