From the Executive Director

November 2022

Since 1991 AAP has been providing nutritional support in the form of $150 Stater Brothers food vouchers to the underserved community in the Coachella Valley. All our clients are low-income and living with chronic illness. Most must survive on just $863 per month. Out of that, they have to pay for rent, utilities, transportation and buy food. Our clients constantly tell us that without our program their medical issues would be exacerbated, or they would simply die.
 
In our 31 years, we have NEVER missed a client voucher distribution, but sadly, it is becoming challenging. As a friend of AAP, will you consider supporting us during this critical time? Your investment in AAP will help ensure the continuity of service to those most in need.
 
Like many other non-profit organizations, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, donations have significantly decreased and our ability to safely hold fundraising events including our much beloved “Evening Under the Stars” has been impacted. The cumulative effects of supply chain issues, labor shortages, food cost increases, and other factors drove the expenses into the stratosphere. Canceling, though regrettable, was the responsible thing to do.
 
Once we get past this temporary setback, we believe that with the return of in-person fundraising events, we will quickly return to our normal financial stability, allowing us to not only serve our existing clients, but move people off of our waiting list and into the program. If there is a need, we are committed to being there and hope that you will be, too.
 
With the coming of the holidays, your support is even more appreciated and needed for those experiencing food insecurity. We know that many people are struggling right now, but if you are not, please help us to help those who are. And remember that you can make a year-end tax-deductible donation right now to AAP – Food Samaritans that might make your accountant smile.
 
We look forward to seeing you at our Angel kick-off event on November 10 at the spectacular home of AAP supporter (and event underwriter) Marc Walters. Please see below for more information, and you may always call me at (760-898-1237) or e-mail me at markanton@aapfoodsamaritans.org
 
Thank you again for your crucial support.
 
 
Sincerely,
Mark Anton
C.E.O./Executive Director