The H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation awarded a $25,000 Impact Grant to Food Now, which is the Coachella Valley’s largest food pantry. Based in Desert Hot Springs, Food Now serves residents throughout the western valley by providing supplemental food assistance, home deliveries for seniors and disabled individuals, weekend meals for children, and other support services designed to strengthen families and build healthier communities.

“We are deeply grateful to the Berger Foundation for this meaningful investment in our mission,” said Tom Tragesser, Executive Director of Food Now. “This support helps us keep our doors open, keep our trucks running, and continue serving neighbors who are facing difficult times.”

Food insecurity remains a significant issue across the region. According to Food Now leadership, many households turn to the pantry for short-term assistance while recovering from job loss, health setbacks, inflation pressures, or reductions in public benefits. Clients include seniors on fixed incomes, working families, individuals in crisis, and homebound residents who rely on food deliveries provided by Food Now volunteers.

“Food Now provides stability, dignity and hope for thousands of local residents,” said Catharine Reed Vice President of Charitable Programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. “It’s important to support the dedicated work of Food Now to help ensure people in various circumstances have access to nutritious food when they need it.”

Founded in 1959, Food Now operates primarily through volunteers and community support. In addition to pantry services, the organization partners with schools and other agencies to address hunger among children, seniors, veterans, and vulnerable residents.

“Food Now represents the very best of our valley—neighbors stepping up to help neighbors,” said Jerry Upham. “We’re proud to join the Berger Foundation in supporting an organization that provides essential assistance to valley residents.”

Impact Grants are a partnership between News Channel 3 and the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. Representatives from both entities look for local 501(c)(3) nonprofits to recognize for their outstanding work to improve people’s lives and help those in need. Impact Grants are awarded on the concept that through service, funding, and awareness, we are “Making a Difference Together.” Beyond the grant, each organization also receives media coverage about its mission across a variety of News Channel 3’s platforms, including News Channel 3 News at 4 and kesq.com.

To learn more about Food Now, visit foodnowdhs.org. For more information about Impact Grants, go to www.kesq.com/life/impact-grants.