L.A. Care Named 2024 Community Champion at MEND’s Dignity Awards Gala

L.A. Care CEO John Baackes and Community Resource Center Manager Judy Hsieh Bigman at MEND Gala

Nonprofit Service Organization Credits the Health Plan with Helping to Feed the Needy in the San Fernando Valley

Meet Each Need with Dignity, or MEND, held its annual Dignity Awards Gala last night, where it presented L.A. Care Health Plan with its Community Champion award for helping to meet the nutrition needs of tens of thousands of vulnerable residents in the San Fernando Valley. L.A. Care CEO John Baackes was on hand to accept the award.

MEND also praised L.A. Care for supporting its First Step program, which provides food, clothing and hygiene products for those who are experiencing homelessness and for hosting a brunch for vulnerable seniors and the unhoused. Baackes said the award is not just a recognition of L.A. Care’s efforts, but also of the powerful partnership with MEND over many years. Together, L.A. Care and MEND share a commitment to uplifting those in need by providing essential services that foster health, dignity, and hope.

At last night’s gala, MEND also presented its Legacy Award to Robert and Cynthia Rawitch, longtime supporters of the organization, who have not only offered financial support, but have spent many hours volunteering in MEND activities.