Summer has come to the Coachella Valley. As the temperatures rise we often forget about those in dire need of food, shelter, medical care, and even companionship.

 

There are numerous non-profit organizations in the Coachella Valley that continue to work hard all year to address the growing needs of those less fortunate. During the summer months their daily work continues with one significant change from the season: charitable contributions significantly drop. This presents a major challenge for those charities that regularly serve the client community who live here year-round.

 

Sadly, decreased charitable support is not a new thing. In 2008 when the national economy plunged into an economic downturn, donations immediately declined and have continued to remain at historically low levels (not just locally, but for charities all over the country). As the economy recovered, donations began to rebound and while the trajectory is positive, none of the charities that service the local community are ‘out of the woods’ yet.  

 

These important charities continue to struggle to raise funds to carry out their missions. AAP – Food Samaritans has been providing nutritional support to low-income members of the community living with HIV/AIDS for more than 27 years, and have recently expanded our mission to include people with other chronic illnesses. Our clients get by on less than $18,090 a year, and are doing so with a chronic illness. Despite fluctuations in funding AAP has never reduced our support and every eligible client has received his/her $100 grocery voucher every single month without fail.

 

Many local charities are in a similar position. Like AAP, our friends at Mizell Senior Center, the Neuro Vitality Center, and the Well in the Desert all serve clients throughout the year and must brace themselves for the lean summer months when demand for services continues but donations to support those services decline.

 

I, along with the board of directors of AAP, believe in the mission of AAP – Food Samaritans and firmly intend to remain of service to those most in need. But we can’t do it without the support of the community – people like you. We are grateful to our major supporters who continue to provide a portion of the funding required to operate our Food Voucher Program but, now more than ever, your support is crucial.

 

One direct way you can lend your support (and have a great time doing it) is to attend our upcoming Independence Day Celebration on July 4 at the O’Donnell House. This fun annual fireworks viewing event begins at 7:30 pm and provides a stellar opportunity to view the City of Palm Springs’ fireworks display at 9:15 pm. Our guests will be treated to a ‘good ole’ 4th of July barbeque with free flowing cocktails while listening to upbeat tunes by DJ Baz. Because significant underwriting for the event was provided by OakHeart Financial Group, the net proceeds from the night will directly benefit AAP’s nutritional support program.  You can learn more about the event here.

 

As this summer heats up, please donate whatever you can to local charities near and dear to your heart. Your contributions will help all of these organizations that, like AAP, make a difference to those in need.

 

Thank you and stay cool!

 

Mark Anton, CEO and Executive Director

AAP-Food Samaritans