New Friends Homeless Center Recognitions
City of Los Angeles Certificate of Recognition
Councilmember Nithya Raman Honors New Friends Homeless Center with a Certificate of Recognition
Sunday, April 7, 2024
“On the behalf of The City of Los Angeles and the Office of Councilmember Nithya Raman of the 4th District, we are proud to recognize New Friends Homeless Center for its years of service to the Encino Community and our unhoused neighbors. For 13 years, under the leadership of Pastor April Belt, the New Friends Homeless Center has made their mission of healing hearts physically and spiritually a reality for people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. We thank New Friends Homeless Center for their continued dedication to assisting the unhoused community in Encino and for the improvement of our neighborhood and Los Angeles as a whole.”
- Councilmember Nithya Raman, 4th District
We were deeply honored when Councilmember Nithya Raman visited New Friends Homeless Center to witness our work firsthand. Deeply moved by the work of New Friends Homeless Center, Councilmember Nithya took a remarkable step to recognize our contributions with a Certificate of Recognition, and we are so very thankful for such an extraordinary honor. Her response was nothing short of awe-inspiring as she was moved by the incredible impact we have on the lives of those we serve.
The Flag of the United States of America
Congressman Brad Sherman Honors New Friends Homeless Center with a Flag Flown Over the Capitol
Sunday, April 7, 2024
“This is to clarify that the accompanying flag was flown over the United States Capitol at the request of the Honorable Brad Sherman, Member of Congress.”
- Congressman Brad Sherman, 32nd Congressional District
In recognition of our dedication and effectiveness, Congressman Brad Sherman, represented by his Field Representative, arranged for an American flag to be flown in honor of New Friends Homeless Center over the United States Capitol building in Washington D.C., affirming the vital role New Friends Homeless Center plays in our community along with our dedication to serving those in-need. This symbolic gesture not only brought well-deserved recognition to the tireless efforts of our volunteers but also highlighted the importance of compassion and support for those experiencing homelessness. Following this poignant tribute, Congressman Brad Sherman gave us the very flag that had been raised in our honor. We proudly received this symbol of recognition, knowing that it represented not only our commitment to serving others but also the unity and strength of our community. We are immensely grateful to Congressman Brad Sherman for his heartfelt gesture and for shining a spotlight on the vital work of New Friends Homeless Center. These gestures serve as a testament to the collective efforts of everyone involved in our mission and further motivates us to continue our important work with even greater determination and enthusiasm.
West Valley Nonprofit of the Year Resolution
Assemblymember Gabriel Honors New Friends Homeless Center with West Valley Nonprofit of the Year Award
Wednesday, June 5, 2019
Los Angeles, CA – Today, Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel honored New Friends Homeless Center as Nonprofit of the Year for the 45th Assembly District. The Recognition Ceremony took place at the State Capitol in Sacramento. Press release here.
In presenting a Resolution honoring New Friends founder Pastor April Belt, Assemblymember Gabriel said “It is an honor to recognize New Friends Homeless Center and Pastor April for the amazing work they do on behalf of our community. I’ve personally witnessed their incredible efforts to uplift and care for folks in the West Valley who are experiencing homelessness. The recent news about the devastating increase in homelessness is another reminder of why it’s so important to support New Friends and the work they are doing to help some of the most vulnerable members of our community.”
Pastor April Belt, the founder of New Friends Homeless Center, added “We really appreciate this recognition of the work that New Friends is doing in the west San Fernando Valley community. It has been great to work with Assemblymember Gabriel and his team in the District and we look forward to serving more community members and neighbors in need.”
Yesterday evening, members of the Assemblymember’s District Office joined New Friends volunteers to serve dinner at their Encino location. Assemblymember Gabriel and his District Office team have previously served meals with New Friends.
New Friends Homeless Center has been providing individuals experiencing homelessness with hot meals, care, and respect since March 2011. New Friends operates locations in Encino and Woodland Hills, and serves over 500 hot meals three times a week. Guests include veterans, senior citizens, those who are disabled, and those with special needs. Birthdays are celebrated and hygiene kits, pet food, clothes, blankets, tents and other items are also distributed.
Assembly Certificate of Recognition
Assemblymember Gabriel Honors New Friends Homeless Center with the Assembly Certificate of Recognition
Friday, March 22, 2019
“In recognition and appreciation for the hard work you have dedicated to helping people facing homelessness in our community. Celebrating your 8th year anniversary of improving the lives of ohers. Wishing you success in all your future endeavors.”
- Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, 45th Assembly District
Encino Strong Award
Senator Henry Stern & Encino Chamber of Commerce Honors New Friends Homeless Center with the Encino Strong Award
Saturday, March 20, 2021
“For your invaluable service, enduring commitment to the community, and the positive impact you have made during one of the most difficult moments in our history. Your vision for a kinder, more compassionate Encino is what it means to be Encino Strong. The State of California commends you for your exceptional work and being an inspiration to the people of the 27th Senate District.”
- Senator Henry Stern, 27th Senate District
Certificate of Recognition
Mayor of Los Angeles, Eric Garcetti, Honors New Friends Homeless Center with the Certificate of Recognition
Thursday, March 25, 2021
“The critical work you do at New Friends Homeless Center is both crucial and inspiring. We cannot prevail in the fight against homelessness without the individualized compassion and emotional support that organizations like yours provide with every meal. Thank you for being such an integral part of the homeless solution.”
- Mayor of Los Angeles, Eric Garcetti
Certificate of Recognition
Councilmember 5th District, Paul Koretz, Honors New Friends Homeless Center with the Certificate of Recognition
Saturday, March 20, 2021
“On behalf of the City of Los Angeles and the Fifth Council District, we thank you for your outstanding dedication and ongoing service to the community of the San Fernando Valley and beyond. Your years of service and dedication have made a difference in our community and we thank you for making the City of Los Angeles a better place in which to live, work and play.”
- Councilmember 5th District, City of Los Angeles, Paul Koretz
Certificate of Appreciation
West Hills Neighborhood Council Honors Pastor April Belt with the Certificate of Appreciation
Thursday, March 7, 2019
“Thank you for your service in relieving the suffering of homeless individuals and families.”
- West Hills Neighborhood Council
Certificate of Appreciation
West Hills Sunshine Club Honors Pastor April Belt with the Certificate of Appreciation
Friday, March 22, 2019
“Pastor April Belt is awarded this Certificate of Appreciation for her outstanding support of homeless and needy people.”
- West Hills Sunshine Club
Certificate of Recognition
The City of Los Angeles Honors Miracle Minded Ministries 3 with the Certificate of Recognition
Friday, June 1, 2012
“The City of Los Angeles commends you for the amazing work that you do to provide services to the homeless population in the Third Council District. Through your efforts, families in need have received much needed support. Best wishes for continued success.
- Councilmember Dennis Zine, 3rd District