Local food banks face challenges amid government shutdown
Gavin Nguyen
DESERT HOT SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – As the federal government shutdown continues, food banks in the Coachella Valley are being challenged as they work to provide food for those in need.
Food Now in Desert Hot Springs reported decreasing shipments from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA typically supplies the food bank with fresh food to be distributed to the organization’s clients. Amid the shutdown, however, food bank staff said no fresh milk or meat products have been able to be included in its program.
The food bank has also reported increased demand compared to past years.
Tom Tragesser, Director of Operations at the food pantry, said, “We were serving anywhere from 350 to 400 clients [last year]. Now we’re well into the six hundreds every week on our distribution days.”
“We’re being squeezed on both ends with a higher client count and less food being provided through the USDA.”
The uptick comes as thousands of federal employees nationwide are either furloughed or are working without pay, straining both their wallets, as well as assistance programs like food banks and EBT benefits.
Governor Gavin Newsom also announced Wednesday the National Guard would be deployed to assist food banks across the state. A similar move was made during the pandemic, when National Guard troops helped distribute food.
Food Now said now is a critical time for fundraising. It will be hosting its biggest fundraising event of the year next month. More details can be found on its website – click here for more info.