AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS RECEIVES GRANT IN SUPPORT OF OUTREACH TO LOW-INCOME FAMILIES AND INCREASED BENEFITS

Eligible clients with dependent children may qualify for $300 a month in grocery assistance.

PALM SPRINGS – December 30, 2021: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) is pleased to announce the receipt of a grant from the Hebson Family Foundation that will help underwrite nutritional support for dependent children of eligible clients. The mission of the Foundation is to help improve the lives of children and young adults afflicted with HIV/AIDS or cancer.

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FIRST LADIES OF DISCO TO HEADLINE AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS’ LEGENDARY ‘EVENING UNDER THE STARS’ GALA IN APRIL 2022

Linda Clifford, Martha Wash, and Norma Jean Wright (formerly of Chic) share the spotlight performing some of the most acclaimed songs ever recorded

PALM SPRINGS – October 11, 2021: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) proudly announces that the 27th annual Evening Under the Stars gala will feature the “First Ladies of Disco.” This incredible performance, along with cocktails, community awards, dinner, and dancing will be a night to remember. The gala will take place on Saturday, April 30, 2022, presented by Eisenhower Health.

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AAP – Food Samaritans to Benefit from Barry Manilow’s “A Gift of Love” Holiday Concerts

PALM SPRINGS – May 24, 2021: Pop culture icon and music legend Barry Manilow has announced that he will once again perform five holiday concerts to raise funds for 25 charities in the Coachella Valley. AAP – Food Samaritans is among the beneficiaries.

Manilow’s A Gift of Love V concerts will feature his hit songs and holiday favorites. His past holiday concerts have surprised audiences with a children’s choir, Santa Claus, and even snow! Concerts are scheduled for December 7 and 8 and again December 10, 11 and 12 at the McCallum Theatre.

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Awesome Online Auction to Raise Funds for AAP – Food Samaritans

Week-long Auction to take place June 1 through 7

PALM SPRINGS – May 20, 2020:  The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many events around the world to be cancelled or postponed. Among the most prominent events in the Coachella Valley to be affected was AAP – Food Samaritans’ Evening Under the Stars. It was scheduled for Saturday, May 2 but because of the rapidly changing situation regarding the coronavirus, large gatherings like this have been banned. AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) is putting together a special on-line auction to raise much needed funds to help them through this challenging time. The on-line auction will take place June 1 through 7.

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AAP – Food Samaritans Announces Increased Client Benefits and a Matching Donation for Giving Tuesday

Clients will receive a 50% increase to their monthly food vouchers.

PALM SPRINGS – December 2, 2019: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) announced that in conjunction with Giving Tuesday, long-time supporters Thomas Andrika and Joseph Johnson will match all gifts received on December 3, doubling the impact of all donations. In addition, the organization announced that it will increase to the value of their clients’ food voucher from $100 to $150 per month.

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THE MUSIC OF ELTON JOHN TO HIGHLIGHT AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS’ LEGENDARY ‘EVENING UNDER THE STARS’ GALA

“Almost Elton John” starring Craig A. Meyer and Featuring The Rocket Band to Headline Gala on May 2, 2020

PALM SPRINGS – November 25, 2019: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) proudly announces that the 27th annual Evening Under the Stars gala will feature the music of Elton John in a show titled “Almost Elton John” starring Craig A. Meyer and featuring the Rocket Band. This amazing performance, along with cocktails, community awards, dinner, and dancing, will take place Saturday, May 2, 2020, beginning at 5:30 PM at the O’Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs.

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26th Annual Palm Springs Open to Benefit AAP – Food Samaritans

PALM SPRINGS – October 9, 2019: AAP - Food Samaritans (AAP) announced today that the Desert Tennis Association will continue it long-time support of AAP by donating the proceeds from the upcoming 26th Annual Palm Springs Open to AAP to support its food voucher program for low-income Coachella Valley residents living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. This is the 14th consecutive year that Desert Tennis Association (DTA) has supported AAP. The Palm Springs Open is an international tennis tournament run by the DTA that attracts more than 300 LGBT players from around the world.

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AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS TO COMMENCE 2019-2020 SEASON WITH JEANNETTE ROCKEFELLER ANGEL PROGRAM KICKOFF CELEBRATION

PALM SPRINGS – September 19, 2019: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) will begin its 2019-2020 season with the annual Jeannette Rockefeller Angel Program Kickoff Celebration on Sunday, October 13, 2019 at 5 p.m. at a private location in Palm Springs (address provided upon RSVP). The event is the main fundraising drive for AAP and enables the organization to provide monthly food vouchers for its low-income clients who are living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses throughout the Coachella Valley.

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AAP – Food Samaritans To Host a Brilliant “Independence Day Celebration”

Historic O’Donnell House will be the Site of Spectacular Benefit

PALM SPRINGS – June 3, 2019: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) will host a dazzling Independence Day Celebration and fundraiser on Thursday, July 4, 2019 at the historic O’Donnell House, also known as “Eye of the Desert” (or Ojo Del Desierto).  Settled on the sheer mountainside above the Palm Springs Art Museum, the expansive terrace of the O’Donnell House seems to float above the desert floor. 

The event begins at 7:30 pm, and the City of Palm Springs’ fireworks display will commence at approximately 9:15 pm. Guests will be treated to a good ole’ 4th of July barbeque catered by Willie Rhine and his team from EIGHT4NINE who will provide amazing décor, great service, and delicious food and beverages. Tickets are $150, which includes an open bar, barbeque, entertainment, and valet parking. (Advance purchase is required.) You may buy tickets HERE.

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AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS ANNOUNCES ‘EVENING UNDER THE STARS’ GALA HONOREES

The 26th Anniversary ‘Evening Under the Stars’ Gala Will Take Place on May 4, 2019

PALM SPRINGS – January 14, 2019: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) announced that it will honor a few significant community members at the upcoming the 26th Annual Evening Under the Stars gala, to be held on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at the O’Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs. The honorees include Ruta Lee for the Jeannette Rockefeller Humanitarian Award, Glenn Johnson
 and Michael Melancon for the Gloria Greene Inspiration Award, and Ron DeHarte of Greater Palm Springs Pride for the Herb Lazenby 
Community Service Award. The honorees will receive public recognition at the annual fundraising event.

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TRIO RESTAURANT’S 10TH ANNUAL “HOLLYWOOD’S BIGGEST NIGHT” TO BENEFIT AAP- FOOD SAMARITANS

Academy Awards Celebration to Feature Signature ‘Orange Carpet’ Arrivals!

PALM SPRINGS – November 12, 2018: In celebration of the 91st annual Academy Awards, TRIO Restaurant in Palm Springs will host their tenth annual “Hollywood’s Biggest Night” Oscar party to benefit AAP-Food Samaritans at 4 pm on Sunday, February 24, 2019. The glittering evening will include signature ‘orange carpet’ arrivals featuring a group of paparazzi, and a special greeting from dynamic hostess and local celebrity, Bella da Ball. The Oscars® pre-show and awards presentations will be viewed on special screens throughout the restaurant.

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Encore: A Celebration of American Idols To Benefit AAP – Food Samaritans

PALM SPRINGS – September 24, 2018: Celebrity Doodles will present ENCORE: A CELEBRATION OF AMERICAN IDOLS with Idol top finalists Ada Vox, David Hernandez, and Effie Passero on Saturday, November 3 at 6:30 PM. All three performers feature incredible voices and together will bring down the house to help celebrate Palm Springs Pride with a fantastic celebration of fun, festive music, and dance. The event will take place at Zelda’s nightclub, 611 S. Palm Canyon Drive. Show tickets (no-host bar) are $45, and Premium tickets (including a meet and greet) are $90. Sky Box premium tables for 4 with eight complimentary drink tickets, appetizers and a meet and greet are $600. A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit AAP – Food Samaritans.

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AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS TO COMMENCE 2018-2019 SEASON WITH JEANNETTE ROCKEFELLER ANGEL PROGRAM KICKOFF CELEBRATION

PALM SPRINGS – September 20, 2018: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) will begin its 2018-2019 season with the annual Jeannette Rockefeller Angel Program Kickoff Celebration on Sunday, October 7, 2018 at 5 p.m. at a private estate in Palm Springs (address provided upon RSVP). The event is the main fundraising drive for AAP and enables the organization to provide monthly food vouchers for its low-income clients who are living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. There is no admission fee to attend, but attendance to the event implies an intention to participate in the Angel Program. An RSVP is required by October 5. Call 760-325-8481 or go to aapfoodsamaritans.org for more information on the program.

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AAP – Food Samaritans To Host “Independence Day Party”

Historic O’Donnell House Will be the Site of Sizzling Benefit
 
PALM SPRINGS – May 17, 2018: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) will host a dazzling Independence Day party and fundraiser on Wednesday, July 4 at the historic O’Donnell House, perched high on the mountainside above the Palm Springs Art Museum, at 412 W. Tahquitz Canyon Way. The event begins at 7:30 pm, and the City of Palm Springs’ fireworks display will commence at approximately 9:15 pm. A DJ will play a range of upbeat songs (some with a patriotic twist) and guests will be treated to a ‘good ole’ 4th of July Bar-B-Q with burgers, grilled chicken, and more. Tickets for this event are $150, which includes an open bar, barbeque, entertainment, and valet parking.

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AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS ANNOUNCES ‘EVENING UNDER THE STARS’ GALA HONOREES

The 25th Anniversary ‘Evening Under the Stars’ Gala Will Take Place on May 5, 2018

PALM SPRINGS – March 27, 2018: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) announced that it will honor several significant community members and organizations at the upcoming the 25th Annual Evening Under the Stars gala, to be held on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at the O’Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs. The honorees include Auen Foundation, represented by Sherrie Auen, Ron Auen, and Catharine Reed for the Jeannette Rockefeller Humanitarian Award, The Desert Sun Media Group for the Gloria Greene Inspiration Award, Desert Tennis Association, represented by Nabil Najjar for the Herb Lazenby Community Service Award, and Denise Haslam and Angela Slater for the Frank Jurczyk Volunteer Award. The honorees will receive public recognition at the annual fundraising event.

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TRIO RESTAURANT’S 9TH ANNUAL “HOLLYWOOD’S BIGGEST NIGHT” TO BENEFIT AAP-FOOD SAMARITANS

Academy Awards Celebration to Feature Signature Orange Carpet Arrivals
 
PALM SPRINGS – February 13, 2018: In celebration of the 90th annual Academy Awards, TRIO Restaurant in Palm Springs will host the ninth annual “Hollywood’s Biggest Night” to benefit AAP-Food Samaritans at 4 pm on Sunday, March 4, 2018. The glittering evening will include signature ‘orange carpet’ arrivals featuring a group of paparazzo, and a special greeting from dynamic hostess and local celebrity, Bella da Ball. The Oscars® pre-show and awards presentations will be viewed on special screens throughout Trio’s bar and restaurant areas. 

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2018 SOFTBALL ‘WINTER CLASSIC’ TO BENEFIT AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS

27th Annual Softball Tournament Features LGBT Players, is Free to the Public

PALM SPRINGS – January 29, 2018: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP), in cooperation with the City of Palm Springs and the Palm Springs Gay Softball League, announces the 27th Annual Palm Springs Winter Classic Softball Tournament will take place February 9 -11, 2018. The teams participating in the tournament, which benefits AAP, are members of the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance (NAGAAA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting amateur athletics for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community.

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24th Annual Palm Springs Open To Benefit AAP - Food Samaritans

Desert Tennis Association Continues Long-Standing Support of AAP Food Voucher Program

PALM SPRINGS – October 23, 2017: AAP - Food Samaritans (AAP) announced today that the Desert Tennis Association will continue it long-time support of AAP by donating the proceeds from the upcoming 24th Annual Palm Springs Open to AAP to support its food voucher program for low-income Coachella Valley residents living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. This is the 12th consecutive year that Desert Tennis Association has supported AAP. The Palm Springs Open is an international tennis tournament run by the Desert Tennis Association (DTA) that attracts more than 300 LGBT players from around the world. DTA is a non-profit corporation that organizes tennis events for the LGBT community in the Coachella Valley and raises funds for local charities. The event is free to the public, and a portion of the proceeds from the silent auction and dinner will benefit AAP. The tournament schedule will be available at deserttennis.us.

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AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS ANNOUNCES THAT GLADYS KNIGHT WILL BE THE HEADLINER FOR ‘EVENING UNDER THE STARS’ GALA

The 25th Anniversary ‘Evening Under the Stars’ gala will take place on May 5, 2018

PALM SPRINGS – October 10, 2017: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) proudly announces that Gladys Knight will be the headline entertainment for the 25th annual Evening Under the Stars gala, to be held on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at the O’Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs. Gladys Knight is a seven-time Grammy Winner and one of the greatest singers of our time.  Her Billboard Number 1 R&B Singles include: “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “That’s What Friends are For,” “You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me,” “Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye),” “I Heard it Through the Grapevine,” and “If I Were Your Woman.”

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TDS Valley Voice: AAP - Food Samaritans Offerings Growing

From The Desert Sun, Valley Voice - June 6, 2017

Mealtime is probably not a challenge to most of us in the Coachella Valley. But for some of our community, this can be a daily struggle. It’s difficult to imagine what it is like to try to get by on $18,090 a year (or less). Visualize trying to do that while living with a life-threatening illness. For many people, this is inconceivable. But for the clients of AAP – Food Samaritans, this is a struggle they face every day. To help out, each month AAP – Food Samaritans provides nutritional support to economically disadvantaged residents who live with a life-threatening illness.

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Special Performance by Barry Manilow

PALM SPRINGS - May 18, 2017: Pop culture icon and music legend Barry Manilow announced today that he will once again perform five holiday concerts to raise funds for 25 charities in the Coachella Valley.  AAP – Food Samaritans is among the beneficiaries, but we MUST be selected at the time of purchase! 
 
Manilow’s A Gift of Love IV concerts will feature his hit songs and holiday favorites. His past holiday concerts have surprised audiences with a children’s choir, Santa Claus, and even snow!  Concerts are scheduled for December 12 and 13 and then again December 15, 16 and 17 at the McCallum Theatre.

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AAP – Food Samaritans To Host “IndepenDANCE Day Party”

Historic O’Donnell House Will be the Site of Sizzling Benefit

PALM SPRINGS – May 16, 2017: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) will host a dazzling IndepenDANCE Day party and fundraiser on Tuesday, July 4, 2017 at the historic O’Donnell House, perched high on the mountainside above the Palm Springs Art Museum, at 412 W. Tahquitz Canyon Way. The event begins at 7:30 pm, and the City of Palm Springs’ fireworks display will commence at approximately 9:15 pm. DJ Baz will play a range of upbeat dance songs (some with a patriotic twist) and guests will be treated to a ‘good ole’ 4th of July Bar-B-Q with burgers, grilled chicken, and more. Tickets for this event are $150, which includes an open bar, barbeque, entertainment, and valet parking.

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AAP - FOOD SAMARITANS ANNOUNCES ALLIANCE WITH DESERT AIDS PROJECT TO LEAD NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT PROGRAMS FOR BOTH ORGANIZATIONS

PALM SPRINGS – MAY 8, 2017: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) announced that it has created a new alliance with Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) in which AAP will now lead the nutrition programs for both organizations. Under the terms of the agreement, AAP will continue to supply monthly food vouchers to its clients but these will now be distributed (along with a monthly supply of fresh food) at the Morris & Lila Linsky Food Annex at the Greenburg Peet Campus. This gives AAP clients the opportunity to access other services provided at the campus, including those provided by D.A.P. AAP will lead and oversee all nutritional programs for both organizations. The program will be called the AAP – Food Samaritans Nutrition Program and will be implemented starting September 1.

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AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS AWARDED $25,000 GRANT FROM AUEN FOUNDATION

Foundation Continues Long-Standing Support of AAP Food Voucher Program
 

PALM SPRINGS – May 1, 2017: AAP - Food Samaritans (AAP) announced today that the Auen Foundation recently awarded a $25,000 grant to the organization to support its food voucher program for low-income Coachella Valley residents who suffer from HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. This is the 18th consecutive year that the Auen Foundation has supported this program.

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BOBBIE EAKES TO BE 2017 ‘EVENING UNDER THE STARS’ MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES

Gala To Raise Funds for Nutritional Support Programs

PALM SPRINGS – April 26, 2017: Emmy nominated actress, singer and television host Bobbie Eakes will be the Mistress at the 24th annual Evening Under the Stars gala on Saturday, May 6, 2017, at 6 p.m. at the O’Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs. A benefit for AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP), the event will raise funds to support AAP’s ongoing nutritional support programs.

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AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD MEMBERS

Organization also received significant donation from Desert Tennis Association and received two awards from Desert Sun/Desert Magazine.
 

PALM SPRINGS – March 14, 2017: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) announced that three community members have recently joined the organization’s Board of Directors. Mark Messenger, Craig Magaw, and Art Williams all recently agreed to join the AAP board and help the organization raise funds to support its ongoing mission to provide nutritional support to improve the quality of the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. Biographies of the new board members are included at the end of this release.

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AAP-FOOD SAMARITANS ANNOUNCES 2017 ‘EVENING UNDER THE STARS’ HONOREES

Contributions of Community Heroes to be Recognized at 24th Annual Gala!

PALM SPRINGS – February 28, 2017: AAP – Food Samaritans (AAP) announced that several community leaders will be honored at the 24th annual Evening Under the Stars gala on Saturday, May 6, 2017, at 6 p.m. at the O’Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs. The 2017 honorees include: Dr. Timothy Jochen and Lee Irwin (Jeannette Rockefeller Humanitarian Award), Gregg Selleck (Gloria Greene Inspiration Award), Laurie Weitz (Herb Lazenby Community Service Award) and Bob Pollock (posthumously) (Joanna Jakway Community Hero Award). The Corporate Angel Award will be given this year to Eisenhower Medical Center. For more about this year’s honorees, please see below.

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STANLEY PAUL TO PERFORM ‘RED HOT & RICH’ FEATURING THE MUSIC AND LIFE OF COLE PORTER

West Coast Premiere Will Showcase Chicago’s Legendary Pianist and Orchestra Leader in a Benefit for AAP – Food Samaritans

PALM SPRINGS, CA – February 1, 2017: Chicago’s legendary pianist and orchestra leader Stanley Paul will bring his lively and fascinating show “Red Hot & Rich” to the Coachella Valley on Friday, March 10 with a reception at 6:30 p.m. and show at 7:30 p.m. at Heather James Fine Art, located at 45188 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert. Throughout Paul’s five-decade career, he has been fortunate to have enjoyed intimate moments with dozens of music and entertainment legends, including Bette Davis, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Lauren Bacall, Gloria Swanson, Carol Channing, Liberace, Joan Crawford, Ethel Merman and Oprah Winfrey among many, many more.

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TRIO RESTAURANT’S 8TH ANNUAL “HOLLYWOOD’S BIGGEST NIGHT” TO BENEFIT AAP-FOOD SAMARITANS

Academy Awards Celebration to Feature Signature Orange Carpet Arrivals

PALM SPRINGS – January 24, 2017: In celebration of the 89th annual Academy Awards, TRIO Restaurant in Palm Springs will host the eighth annual “Hollywood’s Biggest Night” to benefit AAP-Food Samaritans at 4:30 pm on Sunday, February 26, 2017. The glittering evening will include signature ‘orange’ carpet arrivals featuring a group of paparazzo, and a special greeting from dynamic hostess and local celebrity, Bella da Ball. The Oscars® pre-show and awards presentations will be viewed on special screens throughout Trio’s bar and restaurant areas.

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2017 ‘WINTER CLASSIC’ TO BENEFIT AAP – FOOD SAMARITANS

26th Annual Softball Tournament Features LGBT Players, is Free to the Public

PALM SPRINGS – January 23, 2017: AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans (AAP), in cooperation with the City of Palm Springs and the Palm Springs Gay Softball League, announces the 26th Annual Palm Springs Winter Classic Softball Tournament will take place February 11-12, 2017. The teams participating in the tournament, which benefits AAP, are members of the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance (NAGAAA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting amateur athletics for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community.

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MARTHA REEVES & THE VANDELLAS WILL BE THE 2017 ‘EVENING UNDER THE STARS’ ENTERTAINERS

Iconic Motown Group is Best Known for its Smash Hits, “Heat Wave,” “Dancing In The Street,” “Jimmy Mack,” and “Nowhere To Run”

PALM SPRINGS – November 15, 2016: AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans (AAP) proudly announces that Martha Reeves & the Vandellas will be the headline entertainment for the 24th annual Evening Under the Stars gala, to be held on Saturday, May 6, 2017 at the O’Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs. Martha Reeves & the Vandellas are an iconic Motown group that had, in their heyday, more than 26 hits and were a constant presence on the music charts, as well as on television and in top music venues across the US and abroad.

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GAND BAND TO PERFORM AT 2016 ANGEL PROGRAM KICKOFF PARTY

PALM SPRINGS, CA – October 12, 2016: The annual Jeannette Rockefeller Angel Program Kickoff Party benefiting AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans (AAP) will take place on Sunday, November 13, 2016 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at an exclusive private residence in Palm Springs. The highlight of the evening will be a special performance by The Gand Band, who will play their unique Chicago Style rock and soul. There is no admission fee for the event, but attendance indicates an intention to participate in AAP’s Annual Giving Program. An RSVP is required..Click Here.

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Michael Childers' Hollywood Dine and Dish III

PALM SPRINGS – August 31, 2016: AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans (AAP) announces the return of an exclusive, star-studded event in support of its vital food voucher program. Hollywood Dine and Dish III will take place at 7 pm on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at a private estate in Palm Springs.

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RENOVA SOLAR PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR AIDS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

PALM SPRINGS – June 8, 2016: AIDS Assistance Program - Food Samaritans (AAP) announced today that Renova Solar has pledged to donate $1,000 for every new Renova client that installs solar panels at their residence or commercial building from now until October 1, 2016.  For any Coachella Valley Southern California Edison homeowner who mentions AIDS Assistance Program as their referral source and completes an installation through a purchase or lease, Renova will contribute $1,000 to AAP in honor of that customer. If the customer decides not to proceed with solar or chooses a competitor after an in-home consultation, Renova will still make a $100 donation to AAP.

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INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION TO SUPPORT AAP

PALM SPRINGS – May 4, 2016: AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans (AAP) will host its spectacular Sixth Annual Independence Day celebration and fundraiser on Monday, July 4, 2016 at the historic O’Donnell House, perched high on the mountainside above the Palm Springs Art Museum, at 412 W. Tahquitz Canyon Way. The event begins at 7:30 pm, and the City of Palm Springs’ fireworks display will commence at 9:15 pm

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AIDS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AWARDED $25,000 GRANT FROM AUEN FOUNDATION

PALM SPRINGS – April 27, 2016: AIDS Assistance Program - Food Samaritans (AAP) announced today that the Auen Foundation recently awarded a $25,000 grant to the organization to support its food voucher program for low-income Coachella Valley residents who suffer from HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. This is the 17th consecutive year that the Auen Foundation has supported this program.

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AIDS Assistance Program's 'Evening Under The Stars' 2016 Gala to Feature Classic Disco Group 'Village People'

January 28, 2016

AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans (AAP) announces its 23nd annual Evening Under the Stars gala will feature a performance by music legends ‘Village People.’ The event will take place Saturday, April 30, 2016 at 5:30 PM at the O’Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs.

Formed in 1977, Village People has sold more than 100 million records worldwide and recently received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Known for their high-energy shows and mega-hits like ‘YMCA’, ‘Macho Man’, ‘Go West’, and ‘In the Navy’, the group continues to tour and make appearances around the world.

“Continuing our tradition of providing great entertainment that gets people up and dancing, we’re bringing the iconic Village People to our village of Palm Springs for one magical night,” said Mark Anton, Executive Director of AIDS Assistance Program. “Their impact on music has earned them the title ‘Kings of Disco’ and these six talented men combine energetic choreography with outrageous fun. Their music will have everyone on their feet!”

Considered by many to be the unofficial finale of the desert social season, Evening Under the Stars was named ‘Best Annual Charity Event’ in the inaugural ‘Best of Coachella Valley’ reader’s poll sponsored by Coachella Valley Independent. AAP was also recently voted ‘Best Service-Oriented Charity/Non-profit’ in The Desert Sun/Desert Magazine’s ‘Best of the Valley’ competition, and Desert Outlook magazine’s Ultimate Pride competition.  In addition, Evening Under the Stars was voted ‘Most Fun Annual Fundraiser’ by voters in the Ultimate Pride competition. In conjunction with the organization’s Jeannette Rockefeller Angel Program, Evening Under the Stars provides the majority of funding for AAP’s food voucher program for low-income residents of the Palm Springs area living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses.

In addition to exciting entertainment and dancing, gala festivities will also include refreshing cocktails, delectable cuisine, and inspiring honorees. Tickets for the benefit, priced at $395 and $500 per person, are now available for purchase. Please call AIDS Assistance Program at 760-325-8481 or visit aidsassistance.org. Individual VIP seats and sponsorship opportunities are also available.

ABOUT VILLAGE PEOPLE
The world-famous group was formed in 1977 in New York’s Greenwich Village and their early popularity was primarily in discothèques and gay clubs. That changed in 1978 when their single "Macho Man" brought them mainstream attention, and their follow-up single "Y.M.C.A." became one of the most popular hits of the 1970s. Not only is Village People a disco icon, they've also been credited with helping to bring ‘gay culture’ to the mainstream. In fact, the widely known "Y.M.C.A." dance was not created by the group; the kids from Dick Clark's 'American Bandstand' actually started the hand motions.

The group's fame peaked in 1979, when they made several appearances on The Merv Griffin Show and traveled with Bob Hope to entertain U.S. troops. Over the years Village People and their music has been a part of many television shows, movies, concert tours, and performances ranging from Jerry Lewis's Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon to the 7th inning stretch at Yankee Stadium during a Major League Baseball All Stars game. They have been featured on the cover of Rolling Stone, and in 2004, they performed as the opening act for Cher on her Farewell Tour.

ABOUT EVENING UNDER THE STARS
Over the years Evening Under the Stars has featured the talents of a wide variety of entertainers. In 2014, an electrifying performance by the First Ladies of Disco – Linda Clifford, France Joli, Evelyn “Champagne” King, Maxine Nightingale, Pamala Stanley, Anita Ward, Martha Wash, and the ladies formerly of Chic: Alfa Anderson, Luci Martin, and Norma Jean – had everyone on their feet with an amazing night of 70’s dance music. Headliners Nell Carter, Tyne Daly, Melissa Manchester, Jane Oliver, Lorna Luft, Suzanne Somers, Bea Arthur, Barry Manilow, Nancy Wilson, Lily Tomlin and the entire remaining cast of Laugh In, Mary Wilson of The Supremes, Pink Martini, The B-52s, The Go-Go’s, Cyndi Lauper, and Darlene Love have all taken the stage in support of this very worthy cause.

ABOUT AIDS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Now in its 25th year of service to the community, AIDS Assistance Program of Palm Springs remains dedicated to providing nutritional support to improve the quality of the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. Initiated by a small group of concerned citizens led by the late Gloria Greene and Jeannette Rockefeller, AAP provides nutritional support to members of the community with low incomes. 

For more information, please call 760-325-8481 

2016 ‘WINTER CLASSIC’ TO BENEFIT AIDS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

25th Annual Softball Tournament Features LGBT Players, is Free to the Public

January 5, 2015

AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans (AAP), in cooperation with the City of Palm Springs and the Palm Springs Gay Softball League, announces the 25th Annual Palm Springs Winter Classic Softball Tournament will take place February 12-14, 2016. The teams participating in the tournament, which benefits AAP, are members of the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance (NAGAAA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting amateur athletics for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community.

Registration and a public opening reception will take place on Friday, February 12, 2016 from 7-10 pm at Hunter’s Nightclub, 302 East Arenas Road in Palm Springs. Throughout the weekend, teams will compete on several fields, including Demuth Park in Palm Springs and the Big League Dreams Sports Field in Cathedral City. All games are free to the public. Competition is open to a maximum of 80 teams in various divisions of play, and the tournament schedule will be posted at pswinterclassic.com after January 25, 2016.

“This is a fun event for players and spectators, and the fact that it benefits AIDS Assistance Program makes it that much more rewarding for us,” says Vicki Oltean, Tournament Director. “We hope the public comes out to the opening reception at Hunter’s on Friday night to meet the athletes, buy souvenir shirts and support this 25-year tradition of softball in the desert.”

The ‘Winter Classic’ was established in 1991 as a fundraising event to help offset out-of-town tournament travel expenses for the Desert Heat Softball team members. Local host hotels have also agreed to donate 10% of that weekend’s proceeds to AAP. For more information, visit pswinterclassic.com or call 760-323-8277.

Since its founding in 1991, AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans remains dedicated to providing nutritional support to improve the quality of the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS, and will expand its mission in 2016 to include other chronic illnesses. Initiated by a small group of concerned citizens led by the late Gloria Greene and Jeannette Rockefeller, AAP provides food vouchers to members of the community with low incomes. For more information, please call 760/325-8481.

Organizations to Host Variety of Events in Support of AIDS Assistance Program - Food Samaritans Launch

Non-Profit Is Expanding Its Mission to Include Residents With Other Chronic Illnesses

October 28, 2015

AIDS Assistance Program –Food Samaritans (AAP) is pleased to announce a series of events hosted by friends and partner organizations that are designed to benefit the expansion of its health-sustaining food voucher program to low-income Coachella Valley residents with any serious chronic illness, in addition to HIV/AIDS.

Providing nutritional support to help improve the lives of local residents living with HIV/AIDS since 1991, AAP will expand its mission to include other low-income people living with chronic and life-threatening illnesses beginning in January 2016. With approximately $250,000 needed to get the program up and running, partner organizations have stepped in to assist with fundraising efforts by hosting a variety of events in the month of November:

Gand Band-A-Gogo – a reception featuring the Chicago sound of the Gand Band on Saturday, November 14 at Zeldas Nightclub from 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Drawing from musical influences that include Motown, 1960’s Psychedelic, Spy Music, Chicago Blues, and Ultra Lounge, the Gand Band’s dynamic husband and wife team of Joan and Gary Gand are hosting this event to kick-start the fundraising necessary to launch Food Samaritans. Enjoy delicious appetizers and a cash bar. Tickets, $25 per person and up, may be purchased in advance

 http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2432119.

22nd Annual Palm Springs Open – an international tennis tournament Friday, November 27 – Sunday, November 29 at Mission Hills Country Club, Monterey Country Club, Plaza Racquet Club, and Rancho Las Palmas Country Club. Run by the Desert Tennis Association, a non-profit corporation that organizes tennis events and raises funds for local charities, the tournament attracts more than 300 LGBT players from around the world. Admission is free to the public. Visit deserttennis.us for a complete schedule of matches.

Gamma Mu Foundation presents “Transition into the Season” on Friday, November 27 at 5PM, a festive party to kick off the holiday season. Located at an exclusive private estate in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood of Palm Springs, guests will enjoy fabulous entertainment, hosted bar, and a delectable array of appetizers at this reception benefiting both organizations. Tickets are $100 per person and may be purchased at aidsassistance.org or by calling the AAP office at 760-325-8481. Gamma Mu Foundation seeks to make a positive difference in the LGBT community, primarily in rural and other underserved areas of the US. Visit gammamufoundation.org.

“I’m thrilled that our announcement about expanding AAP’s food voucher program to include those with other chronic illnesses has been so well received by the community,” stated Mark Anton, Executive Director of AIDS Assistance Program. “There’s a real need among the less fortunate in the Coachella Valley, particularly during the holiday season, and we are extremely grateful to all the individuals and organizations who have stepped up to support this new endeavor. It warms my heart to know that so many people care enough to act.”

Also scheduled during Thanksgiving weekend, AAP presents ‘Eat, Drink & Be Merry’ on Saturday, November 28 at The Bougainvillea Room at Spencer’s Restaurant. The evening will begin with cocktails at 7 p.m., followed by dinner at 8 p.m. and a smooth jazz and blues performance by local singing sensation Keisha D, named Best Vocalist in McCallum Theater's 2008 Open Call competition. Festive cocktails, delectable cuisine, and valet parking will be included, plus a special opportunity to surprise some of AAP’s most unfortunate clients with gifts for the holidays. Tickets are $175 per person and may be purchased by calling 760-325-8481 or visit aidsassistance.org.

Funds generated from these events will support AAP’s food voucher program, contributing to the $50,000 needed each month to continue those vital services. AAP receives no federal or state funding, relying on the generosity of private donors and other organizations.

AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans is dedicated to providing nutritional support to improve the quality of the lives of low-income people living with HIV/AIDS in the Coachella Valley, and will expand its mission in 2016 to include other chronic illnesses. For more information, please call 760/325-8481

'Eat, Drink & Be Merry' Holiday Party to Benefit AIDS Assistance Program - Food Samaritans

Featuring Singing Sensation Keisha D and Opportunities to Assist Low-Income Families

October 27, 2015

AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans (AAP) will serve up an evening of comfort and joy this holiday season to help low-income residents in need on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at The Bougainvillea Room at Spencer’s Restaurant, located at 701 W. Baristo Road in Palm Springs.

The evening will begin with cocktails at 7 p.m., followed by dinner at 8 p.m. and a smooth jazz and blues performance by local singing sensation Keisha D, winner of the prestigious Best Vocalist title in McCallum Theater's highly acclaimed annual Open Call in 2008. Festive cocktails, delectable cuisine, and valet parking will be included, plus a special opportunity to surprise some of AAP’s most unfortunate clients with gifts for the holidays.

“This time of year can be especially challenging for those with little money who are also suffering with chronic illness,” explained Mark Anton, Executive Director of AIDS Assistance Program. “More than 500 clients rely on us for food each month – a responsibility we take very seriously. This year, we’re going the extra mile by providing our supporters with additional opportunities to furnish much-needed household items and toys to these families.”

Unwrapped toys or gift cards will be accepted at the event. For those who don’t bring a gift and still want to help, special holiday ornaments with “wish list” items will be available. All funds generated from the event will support AAP’s food voucher program, contributing to the $50,000 needed each month to continue those vital services. AAP receives no federal or state funding, relying on the generosity of private donors and other organizations.

Tickets for ‘Eat, Drink & Be Merry’ are $175 per person and may be purchased by calling 760-325-8481 or visit aidsassistance.org.

Since its founding in 1991, AIDS Assistance Program – Food Samaritans remains dedicated to providing nutritional support to improve the quality of the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS, and will expand its mission in 2016 to include other chronic illnesses. Initiated by a small group of concerned citizens led by the late Gloria Greene and Jeannette Rockefeller, AAP provides food vouchers to members of the community with low incomes. For more information, please call 760-325-8481