INDIO, CA — The California National Guard joined forces with FIND Regional Food Bank this week, stepping in to help with emergency food distribution efforts as demand surges across the Coachella Valley and surrounding desert communities.

Twelve Cal Guard members will be stationed at FIND’s Indio warehouse, providing hands-on assistance with food sorting, packaging, and distribution. Their support couldn’t come at a better time — FIND is serving an increased number of families struggling to make ends meet amid delayed federal paychecks and disruptions to CalFresh benefits that impact more than 50,000 people locally each month.

Mayor Glenn Miller Welcomes the Troops
Indio Mayor Glenn Miller was on-site Wednesday morning to greet the service members and personally thank them for their dedication.

“Thank you for coming and helping us,” said Miller. “Right now, we’re not going to be able to make it without you. As you get into the groove of getting those boxes ready, think about the families you’re supporting. It may not be the work you’re used to, but it’s incredibly important for our residents.”

FIND Regional Food Bank President & CEO Debbie Espinosa said Cal Guard’s support is helping to fill critical gaps as the organization works to keep food flowing to more than 150 distribution sites across a 10,000-square-mile region.

“FIND Regional Food Bank is incredibly grateful to Cal Guard for their service to the community,” said Espinosa. “Their dedication ensures that thousands of families, seniors, and children continue to receive the food they need to stay healthy and nourished during this time of hardship.”

The Cal Guard team will handle logistics inside the warehouse, break down bulk food shipments, and help distribute food directly to residents through FIND’s mobile markets and partner agencies. Their efforts also help offset a volunteer shortage as FIND moves into one of its busiest times of the year outside the traditional holiday volunteer rush.

Lieutenant Colonel Jason Confoloni, who is overseeing the Guard’s local operations, said the troops are eager to give back.

“We have hundreds of soldiers who’ve raised their hands to volunteer,” he said. “Our goal is simple — to help California citizens get the food they need. We’re honored to serve.”

FIND and the Cal Guard have worked together during previous times of crisis, including natural disasters and pandemic-related surges in food demand. This latest deployment reinforces their shared commitment to ensuring that no one in the Coachella Valley goes hungry — especially as the holidays approach.