New John Lennon inspired license plates seek to help end hunger in California

ANAHEIM, Calif. (KTVU) - California motorists may soon have an opportunity to help in the efforts to feed the hungry in California with new John Lennon inspired specialty license plates.

The plate design features John Lennon's iconic self-portrait sketch and the words “Imagine No Hunger" inscribed on the bottom.

They are available now for pre-order at CaliforniaImagine.com and will only go into production after 7,500 pre-paid applications are received by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

The proceeds from the sales are set to go to the California Association of Food Banks (CAFB), which partners with more than 40 food banks across the state to help feed an estimated two million Californians in need.

The cost of the plates range from $50 to $103, depending on the customization of the design. 

The Imagine project is being sponsored by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS).

Yoko Ono Lennon authorized the use of her late husband's image.

“Imagine is a great word to spread around and I'm happy to do this because it's helping a very important charity,” Ono said in a press release.

Organizers say Lennon's legacy as a humanitarian makes him a powerful symbol in the efforts to fight hunger. 

“Working together we can realize a hunger-free California,” said Leslie Bacho, CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. “The Imagine plates not only raise awareness of the scope of the challenge, but also directly help alleviate hunger in our state,” Bacho added. 

The Lennon license program was officially launched in Anaheim on Saturday and events to promote the new design are being planned for the coming months in San Francisco and other cities. 

Organizers say they're excited about the project and this unique chance to get Californians involved in the fight to end hunger.   

“The Imagine license plate offers an opportunity for Californians to say ‘hit the road’ to hunger in our state,” said Sue Sigler, Executive Director of California Association of Food Banks.