March 9, 2020—Los Angeles, California

Pastor Lisa Williams received the “Woman of the Year” award today from Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn in a ceremony that celebrated five women leaders in Los Angeles County who are making a difference. The event, hosted by the Los Angeles County Commission for Women, is known for focusing on women’s issues, providing scholarships to young women, and celebrating the leadership of women in the county.

Williams is pastor of San Pedro United Methodist Church. Since Williams became pastor, she has helped lead a movement to shelter and house the un-housed in San Pedro and throughout Los Angeles County. She has worked with San Pedro United Methodist Church to create a vision and plan for an empty lot on the church’s property to become permanent, affordable housing. Williams also worked with local business owners and public officials to help accelerate the opening of a shelter not far from the San Pedro United Methodist Church that opened this past week.

Supervisor Hahn recognized Pastor Williams’ tenacity and her passion for the un-housed in the community. Hahn mentioned that Pastor Williams was one of the first persons present when the shelter opened ready to welcome guests with compassionate hospitality. “She didn’t think I would notice, but Pastor Lisa came with homemade banana bread for the guests. She really cares.”

Williams was the only recipient who was not serving the county in a political capacity. She was recognized for being a leader in the community and working on an issue that impacts 60,000-plus members of the county. District Superintendent Mark Nakagawa was present as were clergywomen from San Pedro and the West District, and members of the San Pedro United Methodist Church.