SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes launched Pledge 74 on July 6 in an effort to combat food insecurity concerns here in the Bay Area. The Quakes’ objective is to raise and donate $740,000, promote volunteerism and increase overall awareness of this growing problem. Pledge 74 was named after the team’s founding in 1974 and carries with it a legacy of nearly 50 years of community service.
In the first 74 days since the launch of the bold community initiative, the Earthquakes have committed $94,000 while contributing 591 volunteer hours towards the cause. Fundraising efforts were focused around two main sources: A Black Lives Matter promotional scarf and food drives at viewing parties for Quakes matches.
The Earthquakes’ Front Office and fans volunteered the nearly 600 hours at Martha’s Kitchen, the African American Community Service Agency (AACSA), and Our Lady of Refuge and Santa Teresa Parish, each part of the Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County (CCSCC).
Martha’s Kitchen usually serves roughly 600,000 meals annually but has seen a 70% increase since COVID-19 and has served 100,000 meals monthly since April. The AACSA Cares program, which provided emergency food baskets for families in need prior to the pandemic, has served these vital grocery baskets to over 5,000 individuals and families. The Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County distributes groceries and hot meals and have served nearly 400,000 people in their COVID-19 modified distribution sites to date.
The Quakes not only stepped up to help those in need, but also thank the volunteers making this all possible. Martha’s Kitchen staff were given a ticket package for the 2021 season, the AASCA volunteers were treated to a catered lunch from Hobee’s, and the CCSCC staff were given Earthquakes jerseys.
The Quakes have also helped raise awareness by funding 10 billboards throughout San Jose with Pledge 74 messaging and elevated inspirational stories of Wells Fargo Neighborhood Heroes in our community.
