SoCalGas and Labor Community Services Unite for 33rd Annual 'Stamp Out Hunger' Food Drive

LOS ANGELES, June 20, 2025 – Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas), a subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE), is once again demonstrating its deep commitment to community welfare by partnering with Labor Community Services (LCS) for the 33rd Annual National Association of Letter Carriers' (NALC) "Stamp Out Hunger" Food Drive. This enduring collaboration underscores SoCalGas's dedication to addressing food insecurity, a critical issue impacting countless families across Los Angeles County.

This year's initiative marks a significant mobilization of resources and volunteer spirit. SoCalGas has pledged to deploy an impressive contingent of 100 employee volunteers, who will dedicate their time and effort to sort over 1 million pounds of food donations. These donations, collected by postal workers across the vast expanse of Los Angeles County, represent a lifeline for many struggling households and will be distributed to local food banks and pantries.

A Legacy of Community Engagement

The "Stamp Out Hunger" Food Drive, the largest single-day food drive in the nation, has been a cornerstone of community support for over three decades. SoCalGas's consistent participation highlights its corporate social responsibility ethos, extending beyond its primary role as a natural gas utility. The company's involvement is not merely financial; it's a hands-on commitment that fosters a sense of shared purpose among its employees and strengthens ties with the communities it serves.

Andy Carrasco, Vice President of Communications and Local Public Affairs at SoCalGas, emphasized the importance of this partnership: "Our long-standing collaboration with Labor Community Services and the NALC for the 'Stamp Out Hunger' Food Drive is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the well-being of Southern California. Food insecurity remains a pressing challenge, and we are proud to contribute to an effort that directly impacts the lives of our neighbors. Our employees are eager to volunteer their time, knowing that their efforts will help put food on the tables of those in need."

Addressing Food Insecurity in Southern California

Food insecurity continues to be a significant concern in Southern California, exacerbated by economic fluctuations and rising living costs. Initiatives like the "Stamp Out Hunger" drive play a crucial role in bridging the gap between surplus and need. The collected food provides essential nutrition and alleviates financial burdens for low-income families, seniors, and individuals facing hardship. The sheer volume of food handled – over 1 million pounds – speaks to the scale of the need and the collective impact of this community-wide effort.

Market Context and Implications for Sempra Energy (SRE)

While this announcement primarily focuses on community engagement, it indirectly reflects positively on SoCalGas's parent company, Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE). Companies with strong Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) profiles often attract a broader base of investors, including those focused on sustainable and responsible investing. SoCalGas's consistent community involvement enhances Sempra's overall ESG score, which can be a factor in investment decisions, particularly for institutional investors and funds with ESG mandates.

Furthermore, a positive public image and strong community relations can contribute to a more stable operating environment for utilities. By fostering goodwill, SoCalGas may experience fewer regulatory hurdles and greater public support for its infrastructure projects and operational needs. This can translate into more predictable revenue streams and reduced operational risks for Sempra Energy.

Investment Insights

For investors considering Sempra Energy (SRE), this news, while not directly impacting financial results, reinforces the company's commitment to corporate social responsibility. Utilities like Sempra are often viewed as defensive investments due to their stable cash flows and regulated nature. However, their long-term sustainability is increasingly tied to their social license to operate. SoCalGas's active participation in community initiatives like the "Stamp Out Hunger" drive demonstrates a proactive approach to maintaining this social license.

Investors should view such initiatives as part of a broader strategy to build long-term value through strong stakeholder relationships and a positive brand reputation. While not a primary driver of short-term stock performance, a robust ESG framework, exemplified by community engagement, can contribute to reduced long-term risk and enhanced investor confidence. This commitment to community welfare can also help attract and retain talent, further strengthening the company's operational capabilities.

In conclusion, SoCalGas's continued partnership with Labor Community Services for the "Stamp Out Hunger" Food Drive is a commendable effort that addresses a vital community need. For Sempra Energy investors, it underscores the company's strong ESG credentials and commitment to the communities it serves, contributing to its overall stability and long-term appeal.