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The Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles City College (LACC) students and thousands of Southern Californians joined the United Way of Greater Los Angeles to raise awareness and money in the fight against homelessness.
WalkUnitedLA participants walked together at Inglewood’s SoFi Stadium on May 11 to help reach the fundraising goal of over $1.2 M. The funds will help support over 75,500 people experiencing homelessness, as well as those facing housing and food insecurity across L.A. County.
In 2020, about 20 percent of students enrolled at LACC reported having experienced homelessness, and 65 percent faced food insecurity. Rising food prices and the recent closures of the Ninety-Nine Cent Stores has made it harder for low-income individuals for avoid hunger.
Participants in the annual family-friendly walk raised money and awareness to build communities where everyone can access essential resources and opportunities for prosperity, including working families and students.
WalkUnitedLA evolved from United Way of Greater L.A.‘s flagship event HomeWalk established in 2007 when it became the single largest annual event with the mission to end homelessness nationwide.
This year’s WalkUnitedLA honorary chairs were Rams players Steve Avila, Ernest Jones, Kobie Turner and Kyren Williams. Former Ram, Andrew Whitworth, was the event’s co-host. Rams fans had the chance to personally meet and greet the Rams 2024 rookies.
The event also featured a special Mother’s Day celebration, including photo opportunities and giveaways that honored moms.
“WalkUnitedLA is such a beautiful event that shows the best of what we can do when we come together,” said Elise Buik, United Way of Greater Los Angeles President & CEO. “We are so grateful for our deep and collaborative partnership with the Los Angeles Rams. Together we have encouraged thousands of people to come out to support students, working families, and people experiencing homelessness across greater Los Angeles.”