The holiday season is here, and Find Food Bank is issuing an urgent call for donations as demand for food assistance surges across the Coachella Valley. According to the organization, the need for food typically rises by about 40 percent this time of year, but the recent government shutdown pushed that number even higher, doubling the strain on local resources.

Leaders at Find Food Bank say more families are now being forced into difficult tradeoffs, choosing between essential medications, household bills, and food. As more people seek assistance, the food bank is asking the community to donate shelf-stable items such as canned vegetables, beans, pasta, rice, and proteins. They are also looking for volunteers, noting that stabilizing the community over the coming months will require help from residents across the region.

To support these efforts, the Coachella Valley Firebirds are partnering with Find Food Bank for their Season of Giving canned food drive. Donation barrels are already placed throughout Acrisure Arena, giving fans an easy way to contribute during games and events.

NBC Palm Springs will be live from Acrisure Arena on Friday with more information on how viewers can help support families in need throughout the holiday season.