March 16, 2026

Diana Pinto – Executive Director, South Central Los Angeles Ministry Project (SC LAMP)

SC LAMP is a co-sponsored ministry of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus.

In a year marked by uncertainty and injustice, we have been reminded of why South Central LAMP was founded and why our mission matters more than ever. There is nothing “normal” about witnessing families harmed by policies that lack compassion or oversight. Yet, even in difficult times, we remain committed to dignity, justice, and opportunity for the communities we serve.

We continue to demand what is right, remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words, that freedom must be demanded by the oppressed. Amid these challenges, we celebrate stories of resilience. A graduate of our three-year Family Literacy Program, Mary, recently obtained U.S. residency and now proudly works at the very elementary school her children once attended. Seeing her walk by in her school uniform, confident and thriving, is a powerful reminder of what transformation looks like.

This year has also revealed the strength of our community. From responding to ICE raids and SNAP benefits frozen due to the government shutdown, to standing together during times of crisis, we discovered how many allies walk beside us. We cannot be everything for everyone, but together, we can do extraordinary things. What unites us is greater than what divides us, and we are deeply grateful for the compassion, action, and love that continue to lift our families and our shared future.

I am also proud to share that South Central LAMP will be honoring the Society of the Holy Child Jesus during our Empowerment Awards on March 9, 2026, with the Distinguished Service Award, for their decades of compassionate leadership and service to families in South Central Los Angeles.