IRVINE, Calif. -- Verizon is pleased to announce a $50,000 commitment to the Los Angeles Mission in observance of World Mental Health Day. With the help of this money, the group will be able to increase the scope of its offerings and supply essential relief materials to the homeless community during extreme weather events like the summer's harsh heat waves and the winter's bitter cold snaps. With this contribution, Verizon reinforces its commitment to addressing the pressing issues of homelessness and mental health in Los Angeles County.
Verizon has been supporting Los Angeles Mission's essential job of providing seasonal weather catastrophe aid for the past two years. The generous donation from the previous year was crucial in helping disadvantaged unhoused demographic in Los Angeles County by giving supplies for adverse weather, food, clothing, and emergency lodging. The ongoing collaboration highlights the urgent need for reliable support systems as extreme weather events become increasingly common due to climate change.
“Each donation helps us reach more individuals and families in crisis,” said Pastor Troy Vaughn. “With Verizon’s support, we can scale our efforts to provide life-saving supplies that keep people safe and healthy during the harshest weather conditions.”
The connection between housing stability and mental health is profound. Many individuals experiencing homelessness also face significant mental health challenges, exacerbated by the stress of living in precarious conditions. Extreme weather can further complicate these issues, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Verizon’s donation aims to alleviate some of the burdens faced by the unhoused population by ensuring they have access to vital resources during critical times. By providing essential items such as blankets, warm clothing, and food, the organization helps create a sense of safety and security that can positively impact mental well-being.
The President and CEO of Los Angeles Mission, Pastor Troy Vaughn, expressed his sincere gratitude to Verizon for their continued collaboration in delivering life-saving catastrophe relief to the most vulnerable among us. Los Angeles County and California are facing not only record heat waves but also the impending winter season. Many of our homeless friends, veterans, and those escaping domestic abuse are left without a safe haven in the face of increasingly severe weather conditions.
Beyond immediate disaster relief, Verizon’s contribution also supports Los Angeles Mission's long-term initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of homelessness. The organization provides a range of services, including job training, mental health counseling, and access to healthcare. These programs are designed to empower individuals, helping them regain stability and independence.
The partnership illustrates Verizon's broader commitment to corporate social responsibility, focusing not only on immediate relief efforts but also on sustainable solutions that create lasting change. As part of this initiative, Verizon encourages its employees to engage in volunteer opportunities with Los Angeles Mission, fostering a culture of community involvement within the company.
Verizon emphasized that helping those in need takes priority over using technology to connect with the community. Steven Keller, Verizon's Pacific Market President, noted that the Los Angeles Mission has been a beacon of hope for the unhoused population, offering essential services and support. He added that Verizon is honored to contribute to their vital work on World Mental Health Day, making a meaningful impact on the lives of the most vulnerable members of society.
Verizon's ongoing support of neighborhood groups like Los Angeles Mission demonstrates the company's larger commitment to social responsibility and its goal of assisting underprivileged communities by bridging the gap through volunteerism and corporate donations. By aligning corporate values with community needs, Verizon sets an example for other companies to follow.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) enables and enhances the way millions of customers live, work, and play by meeting their needs for mobility, dependable network connectivity, and security. Based in New York City and serving countries across the globe, including nearly all Fortune 500 companies, Verizon reported revenues of $134.0 billion in 2023. For more information, visit verizon.com or locate a retail store at verizon.com/stores.
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For 88 years, the Los Angeles Mission has been a lifeline for the Skid Row community, providing essential emergency services including shelter, meals, clothing, and access to professional medical, legal, and dental assistance. The Mission also offers comprehensive long-term residential rehabilitation programs that include education, mental health counseling, job training, placement services, and transitional housing. Their holistic approach not only addresses immediate needs but also empowers individuals to rebuild their lives. Visit www.losangelesmission.org to find out more and contribute to their work, which is changing lives.
