Surf-inspired catalyst for the community brings business leaders together during pandemic to feed the souls of those who need it most
LOS ANGELES (SEPT. 2, 2020) – On behalf of the 40 partnering businesses fueling the California Love Drop, Wahoo’s Fish Taco is delighted to report it has reached a major and unexpected milestone. What began as a small act of kindness—a single delivery of 300 meals from Wahoo’s Fish Taco to Hoag Hospital in Irvine, Calif. on April 12, 2020—has turned into an astounding sea of collaboration resulting in the delivery of well over 11,000 meals/treats/beverages/PPE to frontline heroes and those in need during the COVID pandemic.
To date, dozens of volunteers have made 100 deliveries, as well as donations of 500 backpacks, to local families and organizations—from Los Angeles to San Diego—including CHOC Children’s Hospital, UCI Medical Center, Hoag Hospital, UCLA Medical Center, San Bernardino Community Dignity Hospital, Dodger Stadium Testing Site and numerous police stations and firehouses.
“On behalf of the 600,000 people I represent, I thank you!,” says OC County Supervisor Don Wagner. “This is a heartfelt token of our appreciation, made possible by the support of corporate folks like Wing Lam, Charles Antis and others who recognize that you keep their families and employees safe.”
The founding “droppers” include Wahoo’s, Blue C Advertising, Yogurtland, Antis Roofing, Coyle, 95.5 KLOS’s Heidi and Frank, Cholula Hot Sauce, Monster Energy and Hint Water. They have gained tremendous support from organizations including but not limited to Enterprise Data Solutions (EDS), Subaru of America, Carlson & Jayakumar, LLP, Shimano Inc., Kirksey and Company, North Men’s Wear, Constellation Brands, Boston Beer Co., Left Coast Brewing Company, B Candy, Yeti, Loan Depot, Vans, Drake’s Organic Spirits, Fortis Resource Partners and The Purist Group among others.
Wahoo’s Fish Taco
“We have always been true believers in the power of the human spirit. Community support is more important than ever, and we have never doubted the impact of a delicious meal in uplifting spirits. For as long as necessary, we will keep this positive momentum going and continue to applaud the courage of our frontline brothers and sisters.” – Wing Lam, Co-founder
Blue C
“Together with Wahoo’s, the Heidi and Frank Show, Monster Energy, Yogurtland, Hint Water and all of the numerous other partners, the entire Blue C team is proud to be a part of a magical movement. The California Love Drop is integrated into the Blue C Caring philosophy of taking care of those in need, starting with the community in which we live and work.” – Eric Morley, Co-founder
95.5 KLOS
“Thank you for starting the California Love Drop. You’re an Angel, Wing! … Angel Wing!!” – Frank Kramer, KLOS’s Heidi and Frank in the Morning
“Over the course of the last 5 months, we have partnered with many amazing people to help spread cheer by delivering frozen yogurt to a doctor working her 11th hour, well needed nourishment to the nurse working his 13th, Monster Energy to the policeman on his 2nd shift, or Wahoo’s Taco meals with hand sanitizer to families in need. This has allowed us to smile, even during the hardest of times, and we can all use more smiles! Celebrating our 100th drop, and well over 11,000 meals, is a milestone I never guessed we would achieve back in April. Now I am already looking forward to our 200th Love Drop!” – Wendy Ellis, Co-founder California Love Drop
Yogurtland
“Our mission at Yogurtland is to spread joy throughout the community, and that’s why we are honored to have partnered with such wonderful brands to continue to bring a smile to those who need it most right now. Being able to deliver our frozen treats to the true heroes in our community have helped bring joy during these critical moments and we hope that our heroes who are tirelessly working were able to enjoy a sweet treat and that it brightened their day.” – Melissa Luna, Field Marketing Manager
Antis Roofing
“Thanks to Wing, we’re awakened, full of aliveness in the moment, seeing new opportunities!!! And we’re near that magic intersection where fulfillment meets impact! Someday I’ll reflect back upon today as one of the most fulfilling and beautiful times in my life. You should come join us sometime on a California Love Drop!!!” – Charles Antis, Founder & CEO
EDS
“Participating in the California Love Drop has impacted the quality of our lives in such a positive way. It has been a privilege to give thanks to the people who are making sacrifices to serve their community; side by side with friends who have inspired us and shared memories that will last a lifetime.” – Jennifer Annes, Director of Business Development
To make a donation to support the California Love Drop, visit: californialovedrop.com.
About Wahoo’s Fish Taco
Founded by Chinese-Brazilian brothers Wing Lam, Ed Lee and Mingo Lee, Wahoo’s Fish Taco, a community mainstay and worldwide pop culture phenomenon, has been serving up its eclectic Mexican-Brazilian-Asian menu since 1988. Celebrated for its fresh food, pro-athlete and celebrity support and charity involvement, Wahoo’s is recognized across the country for its sticker-covered walls. Wahoo’s has 60 locations across the U.S. and Japan. Wahoo’s mission is to nourish their communities with food and experiences while participating in charitable initiatives focused on ending hunger, caring for the environment and educational opportunities for children. To learn more, visit wahoos.com and find us on Facebook.com/WahoosFishTaco and on Twitter and Instagram @WahoosFishTaco.
Media Contact:
Valerie Christopherson
Global Results Communications (GRC)
949 278-7328 | wahoos@globalresultspr.com