In March, we announced that Citi would be joining us as a funding partner for this year's My LA2050 Grants Challenge. Citi pledged $25,000 for an applicant whose work focused on small business development, financial inclusion, or housing, with a special focus on projects that address the racial wealth gap in Los Angeles.

After thoughtful consideration and conversation, Citi has selected LIFT-LA to receive $25,000. LIFT-LA empowers families to break the cycle of poverty through one-on-one financial, educational and career coaching and applied to this year's grants challenge for its Family Goal Fund program. We're so excited for our friends at LIFT and so grateful to Citi for partnering with us to support some of the incredible work happening in our region.

Below, find a statement from James Alva, Citi's Senior Vice President & Market Director of Community Investing and Development for Southern California and Texas:

“Citi is proud to have joined the LA2050 community this year. At a time when our communities need the most support, it has been inspiring to learn about all of the great visions for Los Angeles in the future, but we know that so many need cash today. Citi has been a long supporter of financial security and empowerment. We have admired LIFT-LA's work for years, and we are proud to be able to support them with $25,000 this year via My LA2050.

LIFT's actionable and goal-centered approach to providing financial empowerment services for their members is admirable. LIFT quickly adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic on behalf of the most vulnerable communities by getting much needed cash into the hands of its members in a manner that allows them to maintain their dignity and provides access to other needed services. Citi extends its thanks to all the applicants of the My LA2050 Grants Challenge. We know that LA will be a much better place in 2050 as a result of the work you all do.”