Food needs continue beyond Hunger Action Month in the Coachella Valley
CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) — Hunger Action Month has ended, but the need for food assistance continues across the Coachella Valley.
For 80-year-old Michael Goodman, getting groceries comes with two challenges: paying for food on a limited income and making a difficult drive.
FIND Regional Food Bank’s Homebound Delivery Program brings groceries to his Cathedral City home twice a week, including fresh fruits and vegetables.
“But somehow I’m able to make it work because FIND Food Bank helps,” Goodman said.
Goodman says his Social Security income leaves little room in his budget. Having groceries delivered also helps him avoid trips that are difficult for him.
“If that didn’t get delivered to me, I’d have to struggle with driving out there. And driving is hard for me,” he said.
Goodman is one of more than 200 homebound clients FIND Regional Food Bank serves. The program delivers groceries to seniors, people with disabilities and others who cannot access traditional food distribution sites.
In Palm Desert, Grill-A-Burger supports that work throughout the year by donating proceeds from milkshake sales. The restaurant also held a fundraiser on September 22 during Hunger Action Month.
General Manager Nancy Rhine says customers have embraced the effort.
“It means a lot to know that that provides meals for the community, for people here. And our customers here are very supportive of that, too,” Rhine said.
The restaurant’s individual fundraising total was not yet available.
FIND Regional Food Bank is now preparing for increased holiday demand. Kelly Mui-Chesterton, its vice president of development and community engagement, says money raised during Hunger Action Month will help sustain assistance through the end of the year and into the next.
FIND Regional Food Bank by the numbers
122,000 people served on average each month across its service area. More than 200 homebound clients receive grocery deliveries. More than $15,000 raised overall during Hunger Action Month. 10% to 12% increase in food need typically seen during the holidays. 21 million pounds of food distributed in 2025 across eastern Riverside and southern San Bernardino counties.For Goodman, that support makes a difference in his daily life. His message to those who donate is simple.
“You’re really doing a great service to other people in the community,” he said.
To learn about food assistance, donations or volunteering, contact FIND Regional Food Bank at 760-775-3663
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