60 nonprofits partner with LA Galaxy, but this pupusa stand funds 3 Central American academies
Proceeds from matchday food stands support academies in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras through a nonprofit partnership.
By Lorenzo Marshall ·
Fans buying pupusas at Dignity Health Sports Park now contribute directly to youth soccer programs in Central America. The food stands operate under the banner of Academia de Futbol Juvenil Amatence, a nonprofit organization that uses matchday revenue to support young athletes abroad. Steven Levy Cruz, the founder and executive director of the group, explained that the initiative began through a partnership with the LA Galaxy Foundation, the LA Galaxy organization, Dignity Health Sports Park, and Levy Foods.
The nonprofit maintains a physical location at the stadium where it sells pupusas during every home game. The revenue generated from these sales covers the operational costs of running soccer academies in Central America. Cruz noted that the funds pay for essential resources such as transportation, coaching staff, and player uniforms. The organization also uses the money to ship collected equipment from the United States to various locations in the region.
AFJA operates in specific countries including El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. Shipping these supplies adds an additional layer of cost to the program's budget. The nonprofit aims to ensure that basic logistical needs are met so that children can focus on their training. This direct financial link between local fans and international youth sports is the core of the 'Pupusas With a Purpose' social enterprise.
The LA Galaxy partners with more than 60 nonprofits annually. Gabriel Osollo, the team's director of community relations and foundation, described the collaboration as a mutual benefit. He stated that the organization sells high quality food and uses the proceeds to change kids' lives through soccer. Osollo said this mission aligns with the team's values of youth sports, health, wellness, and inclusion. He noted that the team is proud of its 'Soccer for All' slogan and the work being done.
The partnership allows the Galaxy to support its community while providing fans with a traditional matchday meal. The funds raised help sustain academies that might otherwise struggle to cover basic expenses. As the Galaxy prepare for this Saturday's match, the result will determine if they clinch a playoff spot. The outcome of the game does not change the financial support provided by pupusa sales, which continue to flow to Central American youth programs.
The organization invites the public to learn more about its work at LA2LA.org. The initiative stands as one example of how sports venues can serve as hubs for charitable giving. Fans do not need to be soccer experts to contribute, as the purchase of a single food item supports the broader mission. The collaboration continues to function as a steady source of funding for the academies in the region.
