One of the most heartening things about being part of Los Angeles during this heart-rending time is realizing the scope of the people and resources this city can marshal.
Not surprisingly, the business community is responding to the pandemic in ways that are inspiring, revealing and downright practical. The outpouring of support from companies and individuals to buoy the less fortunate and to lift the local economy shows that hearts and minds can quickly align in L.A.
My inbox and news feeds are filling up with announcements of donations and gifts from corporate leaders and businesses — a demonstration of quick-strike capabilities in a time of crisis.
A who’s who of Hollywood last week answered a call by Mayor Eric Garcetti for help. Power couples Bob Iger and Willow Bay, Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw, Jeffrey and Marilyn Katzenberg, Andrew Hauptman and Ellen Bronfman Hauptman, Meg Whitman and Griffith Harsh, and Casey and Laura Ziffren each made $500,000 donations to the city’s fund to aid those most affected by the crisis.
On the corporate side, Live Nation established a $10 million fund to help crews who build and stage concerts while the industry presses pause. Sony Corp. announced plans for a $100 million worldwide fund for fighting the virus and helping entertainment workers. Chief executives have announced plans to donate salaries to the aid their teams. The Original Pantry Café is giving free curbside coffee to first responders.
Reporter Howard Fine has a cover story this week on the many medical companies in L.A. County that have pivoted to the Covid-19 battle. And on page 40, reporter Coco Huang looks at local distillers who have turned from producing spirits to making hand sanitizer.
Granted, there’s a pragmatic side to some of this largesse. Whether the motivation is compassion or a desire to generate goodwill, the results are the same: Dollars and aid are going where they’re needed as the ranks of the unemployed swell and the city shudders.
We’re looking forward to seeing where the next batch of help comes from.
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During this uncertain time, we want to hear from you. Tell us how your business is adapting. Tell us how your teams are connecting or how your employees are being supported. Or tell us where you’re finding inspiration and ideas. Send your thoughts, quotes and comments to me at [email protected].
