Feed the Need concerts satisfy appetite for live music

First shows in California since shutdown orders raises $50,000 for Feeding San Diego

Framed by Petco Park and views of the Coronado Bridge, music fans enjoyed the first live concert in California since the stay-at-home orders at last Sunday’s Feed the Need Drive-in Concerts. Presented by Baker Electric Home Energy, fans watched the performances from their cars and honked their horns in support at both sold out shows: a sunset performance by SWITCHFOOT and Hirie, and an earlier afternoon show starring the B-Side Players, SM Familia, and Los Sleepwalkers.

Thanks to all involved, 200,000 meals were raised for Feeding San Diego!

“I’ve missed live music so much this year… whether I’m listening to it or playing it,” said Jon Foreman, lead singer of SWITCHFOOT. “I’m so thankful for our friends at 91X and the Padres for the event: it felt amazing to raise some money for Feeding San Diego. Felt even better to turn it up and play it loud in the heart of my hometown.”

The drive-in event allowed attendees to stay in their vehicles to help maintain social distancing and safety. “I’m extremely pleased with what we accomplished,” said Mike Kociela, CEO of Westward Entertainment and a producer of the Drive-in event. “Live music is a passion for so many of us; by taking responsible precautions, I think we showed the world that a model for safe re-opening is possible, and one step closer to getting back to normal.”

The concerts, also produced by Local Media San Diego and the San Diego Padres, received additional support from dozens of companies donating funds or resources to the cause.

Gregg Wolfson, President and General Manager of Local Media San Diego said, “Feed The Need was all about companies and artists from San Diego teaming up to help our community. What a historic day bringing live concerts back to the state of California and our hometown San Diego. We are grateful for everyone’s contributions to make this event a success and give much needed support to Feeding San Diego.”

“When we were asked to be the presenting sponsor, we didn’t hesitate in saying yes,” said Mike Teresso, president of Baker Electric Home Energy. “Joining the fight to defeat hunger in our community is a major initiative at Baker so having the opportunity to help with this groundbreaking event is not only an honor, it aligns with the Baker Family values.”

“The Feed the Need Drive-in Concerts were an incredible testament to how the San Diego community is coming together during this challenging time,” said Gavon Morris, Chief Development and Marketing Officer at Feeding San Diego. “We are incredibly grateful to the San Diego Padres, Baker Electric Home Energy, Westward Entertainment, and Local Media San Diego for spearheading this event to support Feeding San Diego. Sadly, an estimated one in six people, including one in four children, now face hunger in San Diego County due to COVID-19. Funds raised will help us continue to address the rapidly rising need throughout San Diego County.”