Sheryl Lee Ralph accepts Downtown Women's Center's Voices of Change award

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Actress Sheryl Lee Ralph is celebrating another honor, this time for her impact in the world of health.

Eyewitness News was in Little Tokyo Sunday as the "Abbott Elementary" co-star received the Downtown Women's Center's Voices of Change award.

The Emmy-winning actress accepted the award during the Every Woman Housed Gala, which highlighted her passionate advocacy in the fight against HIV.

"For 50 years, DWC has been proving something revolutionary: When you meet women with dignity, when you meet women with respect and true support, miracles happen," Ralph said.

Ralph's charity, The Diva Foundation, has been raising awareness and fighting HIV stigma for 35 years.

She said she was compelled to act after seeing so many of her friends on Broadway being touched by AIDS/HIV through the '80s and '90s.

Sunday's gala also celebrated the Downtown Women's Center's work, including a new 97-unit expansion in Skid Row to support women experiencing homelessness.

Rosa's Place, which will be located near DWC's existing residence at 5th and San Pedro St., is expected to open in 2027.

For more information or to make a donation, visit DowntownWomensCenter.org.