American Red Cross
Northern California Coastal Region
Bay Area Chapter
1663 Market St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
redcross.org/bayarea
Media Contact: Cari Dighton
Telephone: 415-583-2949
cari.dighton@redcross.org
The Clorox Company, Paradise Police Chief Eric Reinbold honored during virtual event
SAN FRANCISCO (April 1, 2021) — The American Red Cross of the Bay Area is pleased to announce that the 26th annual Red Cross San Francisco Gala, held virtually on Wednesday, March 24, raised more than $215,000 to support the Red Cross mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies.
Chaired by Lillian Phan Pickering and Meredith Kendall-Maines, the virtual celebration included a special message from San Francisco Mayor London N. Breed and Bay Area sports teams, including the San Francisco 49ers, the San Francisco Giants and the Oakland Athletics; heartfelt videos from the evening’s honorees, Paradise Police Chief Eric Reinbold and The Clorox Company; and an illuminating performance by San Francisco-based violin/pianist duo, LUMOS featuring Shaina E. and William Cenoté.
THE HONOREES The Red Cross recognized The Clorox Company as the 2020 Humanitarian Company of the Year for its commitment to helping others, and celebrates its purpose to champion people so that they can be well and thrive. Through more than $16 million in financial support, countless in-kind donations, The Clorox Company Foundation grants, and employee activism, Clorox has ensured the Red Cross can fulfill its mission whenever and wherever needed, including providing more than $1 million in COVID-19 relief efforts.
The Red Cross also proudly recognized Chief Reinbold, of the Paradise Police Department, as the 2020 Red Cross Humanitarian Philanthropist of the Year. This award recognizes individuals who inspire their community through their commitment to philanthropy, service and leadership. During the 2018 Camp Fire that devastated the Town of Paradise, the actions, determination, and courage of Chief Reinbold and his force saved lives and has since bolstered the town’s recovery.
“Now in its 26th year, we are so appreciative of the sponsors and partners who helped to raise over $215,000 to support Red Cross disaster relief and who also helped to continue the legacy of our event while keeping everyone safe and healthy,” said Gala Co-Chair, Meredith Kendall-Maines. “It was an honor to celebrate The Clorox Company and Chief Reinbold, who have each gone to extraordinary lengths to keep our communities safe. They have been vital partners to the Red Cross during some of our most challenging disaster responses.”
Last year brought another record-breaking year of disasters, leaving people across the Bay Area, Northern California and beyond in desperate need of help. All proceeds from the event will go towards helping people affected by disasters like wildfires and countless other crises. Since its inception, this fundraiser’s purpose has always been the same: to celebrate and sustain the lifesaving programs and services of the Red Cross. While this year's event took place virtually, the Red Cross still responds to emergencies whenever and wherever they may occur. Despite the hurdles of a pandemic, Red Cross volunteers remain committed to answering the call.
SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS This virtual event was made possible by Silver Sponsors: Kathryn W. Holmes and Diane B. Wilsey; Bronze Sponsors: Deloitte, Delta Dental and Wells Fargo; and the following generous supporters: Alaska Airlines, Drew Altizer Photography, Jackson Family Wines, JL Imagination, Katie Anderson Diamonds, LUMOS, Nob Hill Gazette, Oakland Athletics, Ridge Vineyards, San Francisco 49ers, San Francisco Giants, San Francisco Mayor London N. Breed, Sports Basement, Tailored Brands and Wines of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
For additional event details, please visit redcross.org/redcrossgalasf.
About the American Red Cross of the Bay Area
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/bayarea or find us on Facebook and Twitter.