Edited Press Release
Edison International Foundation is making a $25,000 donation to Foothill Unity Center on behalf of Santa Anita Park for support in ongoing fire relief efforts.
For over 40 years, Foothill Unity Center based in nearby Monrovia has helped those in need with programs focused on food, health, job development, housing and homeless services, crisis management, volunteerism and much more. It serves the local San Gabriel Valley Foothill communities of Arcadia, Altadena, Azusa, Baldwin Park, Bradbury, Duarte, Irwindale, Monrovia, Pasadena, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena and Temple City.
“Foothill Unity Center has been doing amazing work in the community, well before the recent fires,” said Pete Siberell, Santa Anita's Director of Community Service & Special Projects. “Just as the organization stood strong during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the same dedication and compassion are now being extended to families impacted by the wildfires.
“Santa Anita Park greatly appreciates this gesture from Edison International Foundation. In a time of great need, it is gratifying to see local businesses and non-profits working together to help wherever and whenever they can.”
Since the wildfires in January that ravaged Los Angeles County and affected many in the Santa Anita community, the famed racetrack has been at the forefront of relief efforts. Portions of Santa Anita's parking lots served as a staging ground for SCE as well as a base camp for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire). A donation center established at Santa Anita in the immediate aftermath of the fires had more than 100,000 people come through to pick up or drop-off needed supplies.
Santa Anita also partnered with Angelenos In Action on Feb. 23 for a donation drive to aid fire relief efforts. Those who donated were treated by Santa Anita to a complimentary day at the races. Additionally, first responders were also honored with a day at the races that included a lunch, open seating in Santa Anita's box seats and VIP tours of the historic racetrack, which is celebrating its 90th year in operation.
Due to its ongoing relief efforts, Santa Anita last month was recognized as one of nine “Eaton Fire Community Heroes” by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
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