The distribution served an estimated 600 to 900 households in just a few hours, offering fresh produce, dairy products, and staple groceries. FIND officials say the mobile market plays a critical role in addressing food insecurity, particularly in areas where reliable access to nutritious food is limited.

Leaders with FIND say the Indio distribution site has become an important resource for families in the area, allowing residents to access healthy food closer to home. Despite long lines, the event was efficiently organized, with staff and volunteers processing hundreds of vehicles in about two hours.

The mobile market is now hosted directly at FIND’s expanded food security campus, following the recent opening of its new facility. The expansion added 40,000 square feet of space, allowing the organization to store and distribute larger quantities of food, including fresh produce.

In addition to food assistance, FIND also provided CalFresh outreach services during the event. Caseworkers were available to help residents apply for public benefits, offering long-term support beyond immediate food needs.

For many families, the distribution offers essential relief. Residents say the program helps stretch household budgets and provides much-needed support for working families and single parents.

Approximately 25 volunteers helped run the event, assisting with traffic flow, food distribution, and outreach services. FIND officials say volunteers are a key part of ensuring the mobile markets run smoothly and continue to serve large numbers of families.

Looking ahead, FIND says its free Community Mobile Markets will continue every first Friday of the month, offering consistent access to food and resources for residents throughout the Coachella Valley.

By Timothy Foster

Published February 6, 2026 2:12 PM

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The funds were provided by the members of the Hideaway Golf Club in La Quinta. They raised that amount during their annual campaign to support food banks. Thanks to this big check, the FIND Regional Food Bank will be able to continue to provide meals to those in need.

“Now more than ever with the increases of the cost of goods and the economy and housing, there’s so many people that are having to make some really difficult choices between paying for medicines or paying for rent or feeding themselves,” said Debbie Espinosa, President/CEO of the FIND Regional Food Bank.

Espinosa said the donation has the capability to help more than 800,000 meals get served to people in the valley.

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Members of the Hideaway Golf Club in La Quinta are making a major impact in the fight against hunger across the Coachella Valley. The club recently raised more than $100,000 for FIND Food Bank as part of its annual fundraising campaign, continuing a long-standing commitment to supporting local families facing food insecurity.

The donation was presented this week, with FIND leaders saying the funds will help ensure families know where their next meal is coming from. The organization provides food assistance through community distributions, mobile markets, and partnerships with local agencies throughout the region.

This marks the fifth consecutive year the Hideaway Golf Club has supported FIND Food Bank. Over that time, the group has contributed more than half a million dollars through multiple campaigns, helping to build what leaders describe as a strong safety net for those in need.

According to FIND, the partnership has played a key role in expanding access to food resources during times of rising costs and increased demand. Within the last five years, the organization has worked to distribute millions of meals to residents across the valley.

Club members say the goal is simple: to give back to the community and help neighbors experiencing hardship. Organizers hope the continued support will inspire others to join the effort to fight hunger locally.

The post Hideaway Golf Club Raises Thousands to Help Fight Hunger in the Coachella Valley appeared first on FIND Food Bank.

Step-by-step guide to getting help:

1. Locate a distribution site: FIND partners with over 150 distribution locations, including mobile markets and agency partners across a 10,000‑square‑mile area
2. Check schedules: Distribution times vary—many community pantries operate multiple times a week; for example, one pantry in Thermal is open Mon/Wed/Fri mornings, plus some evenings and the 1st Saturday of each month.
3. Mobile markets: FIND’s mobile markets visit neighborhoods across the region—including Palm Springs, Coachella, Mecca, and more—with specific schedules published monthly
4. Call ahead: Program hours may shift. It’s wise to call 760‑775‑FOOD (3663) before visiting
5. Special programs: FIND also offers tailored services—such as senior meal programs, school‑based markets, CalFresh assistance, nutrition education, and outreach via community health workers.
6. No documentation required: Most FIND distributions are drop‑in—just show up during open hours and receive assistance. (But always check ahead in case of unique requirements.)

Need food assistance? Use the FIND Food Bank locator/map to find the nearest site. Call first to confirm hours, and come by—help is standing by, free and without judgment.

The post Access Food Assistance Programs through FIND Food Bank appeared first on FIND Food Bank.

Community leaders, donors, nonprofit partners, and elected officials gathered in Indian Wells for FIND’s annual Guardians Breakfast. The event focused on educating stakeholders about hunger in Riverside County and highlighting how community support is helping families in need.

News Channel 3’s Meteorologist Katie Boer emceed the event.

FIND leadership said the event is designed to bring together organizations, cities, and donors to ensure residents are not left behind as economic pressures continue to rise. Leaders emphasized that collaboration across sectors is critical to keeping support systems strong for the long term.

Organizers noted that many families are struggling to make ends meet due to rising costs, making access to food assistance and other support services more important than ever. They stressed that food banks and nonprofit organizations play a key role in helping families not only survive but work toward stability.

During the event, FIND received a $500,000 donation from Bank of America. Leaders said the funding will help the organization continue distributing food to families across Riverside County.

One speaker shared her personal experience growing up in a low-income household where food assistance was a necessary resource. She said food insecurity is more common than many people realize and emphasized the importance of removing the stigma around seeking help. She also shared that access to food support played a role in helping her family move forward and inspired her continued involvement with FIND.

According to FIND, the organization recorded more than 1.5 million client interactions last year and distributed over 20 million pounds of food through mobile markets and partner organizations. FIND said more families are attending food distributions locally, with lines often growing longer as need increases.

The event also highlighted challenges food banks are facing nationwide, including reductions in food assistance benefits that are affecting communities across the country.

Looking ahead, FIND leaders said continued donations, volunteer support, and community partnerships will be critical to meeting demand. The organization also promoted its upcoming FIND Food Bank Telethon, presented by NewsChannel 3, which takes place May 1 and aims to raise funds to help feed families across the Coachella Valley.

FIND said community support will remain essential as the organization works to address hunger today and in the future.

Contact the Volunteer Programs Department to sign up to become a homebound delivery driver at 760-542-2176 ext. 132 or email volunteers@findfoodbank.org  

For more information on the FIND Regional Food Bank, including how to help, click here.

The post FIND Food Bank highlights growing need at annual Guardians Breakfast appeared first on FIND Food Bank.

Smart strategies with food bank provisions:

1. Plan ahead with shelf‑stable staples: When picking up canned beans, whole grains, or pasta at FIND markets, think versatile meals—such as bean quesadillas, grain bowls, or veggie‑packed pasta.
2. Leverage fresh produce: Fresh fruits and veggies are often available at mobile markets—use them for simple roasted veggies, fruit parfaits, or refreshing salads.
3. Batch cooking and freezing: Cook large portions (chili, soup, stews) and freeze leftovers for quick, nutritious meals later—maximizing perishable produce and pantry items.
4. Prioritize protein wisely: Use beans, lentils, eggs, or peanut butter you may receive—pair them with whole grains for balanced, budget‑friendly meals.
5. Season creatively: Spices, garlic, onions, or citrus (often donated or available affordably) can elevate simple dishes without breaking the bank.
6. Stretch meals with sides: Add a side of broth‑based soups, salads, or veggies to make a little go a long way.
7. Use resources: FIND’s nutrition outreach and community health workers may offer tips or cooking ideas to maximize your haul.

Sample budget meal idea:

• Black bean and vegetable soup: Combine canned beans, frozen or fresh vegetables, broth (or water with bouillon), herbs, and serve over rice or with whole-grain bread.
• Oatmeal breakfast bowls: Use oats, frozen fruit, nut butter (if available), and a dash of cinnamon or honey for a high-nutrient start to the day.

Visit your nearest FIND distribution to pick up fresh produce, whole grains, and healthy staples. And subscribe to FIND’s email newsletter—stay tuned for upcoming tips, recipes, and seasonal budgeting ideas.

The post Healthy Eating on a Budget: Tips from FIND Food Bank appeared first on FIND Food Bank.

Struggling to put meals on the table? FIND Food Bank’s network of services ensures food isn’t just available, it’s accessible.

Step-by-step guide to getting help:

1. Locate a distribution site: FIND partners with over 150 distribution locations, including mobile markets and agency partners across a 10,000‑square‑mile area
2. Check schedules: Distribution times vary—many community pantries operate multiple times a week; for example, one pantry in Thermal is open Mon/Wed/Fri mornings, plus some evenings and the 1st Saturday of each month.
3. Mobile markets: FIND’s mobile markets visit neighborhoods across the region—including Palm Springs, Coachella, Mecca, and more—with specific schedules published monthly
4. Call ahead: Program hours may shift. It’s wise to call 760‑775‑FOOD (3663) before visiting
5. Special programs: FIND also offers tailored services—such as senior meal programs, school‑based markets, CalFresh assistance, nutrition education, and outreach via community health workers.
6. No documentation required: Most FIND distributions are drop‑in—just show up during open hours and receive assistance. (But always check ahead in case of unique requirements.)

Need food assistance? Use the FIND Food Bank locator/map to find the nearest site. Call first to confirm hours, and come by—help is standing by, free and without judgment.

The post How to Access Food Assistance Programs through FIND Food Bank appeared first on FIND Food Bank.

How your financial donations are used:

• Direct benefit: FIND efficiently uses donations to feed approximately 125,000 people each month across the region
• Efficiency matters: We uphold minimal fundraising costs to ensure as much of your gift as possible goes directly to providing food
• Every dollar makes a difference: Just $1 helps provide more than 4 meals for neighbors experiencing hunger.

Ways to give:

• Online donations: One-time or recurring via credit card, ACH, or PayPal
• Stock, matching, planned gifts: Non-cash options like stocks, DAF, IRAs, and employer matching can amplify your support
• Food donations or virtual drives: Donate groceries in person or host a Virtual Food Drive to help FIND purchase food in bulk, maximizing your donation

Transparency you can trust:

• FIND is a 501(c)(3) charity—your donations are tax-deductible. Tax ID: 33-0006007
• Donor privacy is protected—your information stays secure

Join the fight against hunger today. Visit the Donate page to make your gift. You can make your generosity go even further—check if your employer offers matching gifts or host a Virtual Food Drive.

The post The Power of Giving: How Your Donations Help Feed Families in Need appeared first on FIND Food Bank.

Why your help matters:

• Support working families: Nearly 40% of the people we serve are working adults still struggling to make ends meet
• Reach homebound neighbors: Volunteers who deliver groceries help seniors like Karl, age 83, who shared how much companionship and support this service brings
• Experience community and purpose: From weekly warehouse teams to distribution site camaraderie, volunteers like “The A Team” and Martha McCarthy find deep meaning and connection in service

Volunteer options:

• Warehouse work (ages 17+): Sort, inspect, and pack donations for distribution
• Homebound deliveries (ages 18+): Deliver pre-packed groceries to those unable to leave home
• Teen volunteers (14-17): With adult supervision, youth can pitch in at the warehouse or distribution events
• Corporate and group opportunities: Build team spirit while giving back through sorting or distribution events

Ready to make a real difference? Sign up for a volunteer orientation today or call our Volunteer Programs Team at 760-775-3663 ext. 123 to learn more.

The post How Volunteering at FIND Regional Food Bank Can Make a Difference in Your Community appeared first on FIND Food Bank.

Find Food Bank opens new regional warehouse to expand services and combat hunger – KESQ

Bill Sanchez, president and principal of Capitol Building Services, said that adding the new building to the existing food bank facility will enable the organization to store more food and serve a larger area. As a local contracting company, Capitol Building Services made a point to hire local subcontractors for the project, including plumbers, concrete workers, and drywallers. This approach not only supported the local economy but also provided opportunities for skilled laborers to work on a project of significant community impact. Sanchez expressed pride in seeing the project completed, noting that what began as a raw piece of land has now become a fully functional space that will help feed those in need throughout the Coachella Valley.

Randy Quebec, secretary of the board at Find Regional Food Bank, described the opening as an emotional and exciting day. The new warehouse allows the food bank to expand its distribution, provide educational services, and reach residents across the region—from Blythe to Palm Springs. He emphasized that the additional space will help the organization grow its impact and continue addressing food insecurity in the community.

Debbie Espinosa, president and CEO of Find Food Bank, explained that the facility will ensure the organization can accept and distribute all donated food, including fresh and nutritious meals, without turning anyone away. The warehouse will also host workforce development programs, helping community members gain skills and access higher-paying employment opportunities. Espinoza highlighted that the expansion reflects the food bank’s commitment to ending hunger not just today, but for the future.

The project was made possible through collaboration with local, state, and federal partners. The Houston Foundation donated the land for the new warehouse, and the state of California recently allocated $80 million to support regional food banks, allowing them to purchase healthy foods from local growers and strengthen California-based businesses. Federal programs, including SNAP, TFAP, and CSFP, provide a significant portion of the food supplied to the bank and help ensure that children, seniors, veterans, and farmworker families have access to meals.

Representative Raul Ruiz emphasized the critical role of the food bank in addressing high rates of food insecurity in the region. He noted that many children in Eastern Riverside and Imperial counties experience hunger, which can have long-term health and cognitive consequences. Ruiz encouraged continued community support to address increasing challenges, especially in light of recent federal policy changes.

Assembly Member Jeff Gonzalez also praised the food bank’s work and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the organization. He highlighted the collaborative effort required to make the warehouse a reality, calling attention to the dedication of the food bank’s leadership, staff, volunteers, and local partners.

The new Find Regional Food Bank warehouse represents more than a storage facility—it is a community resource that provides food security, educational programs, and workforce development opportunities. With this expansion, the organization strengthens its ability to serve thousands of residents each month, ensuring that individuals and families can access nutritious meals and build skills for a more stable future. Source: KESQ.com

For more information or to Donate.

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