IMPERIAL — To mitigate the impact of high temperatures in the region, the Imperial Valley Food Bank, Imperial Valley College, and BrightSide Produce from San Diego State University collaborated for an indoor food distribution on Wednesday.
Around 250 families received a bag with a variety of items during the food distribution on Wednesday at Imperial Valley College.
According to Xavier Reyna, student success specialist with IVC Student Equity and Achievement, 250 families from the Imperial Valley received a bag of food with canned goods, frozen meats, and produce.
“It’s always beneficial for low-income households that they need extra support from us right now,” mentioned Reyna.
Despite the intense heat, community members were inside the air-conditioned 2700 building lobby at Imperial Valley College, in line to receive a bag of food.
TOP: Attendees appreciated the indoor distribution as high temperatures are being registered across the region and lines to wait for food were held inside the 2700 building lobby at Imperial Valley College on Wednesday.
Martin Gonzalez, a resident from Imperial, appreciated this gesture during the summer.
“It is much better, we are waiting under an air-condition, and we are not exposed to the heat outside,” mentioned Gonzalez while holding his cart.
Over the last two years, he has been attending different distribution sites to help feed his family.
“My money lasts more,” said Gonzalez. “With expenses increasing, such as gasoline, I can invest the money in that.”
He considered the food given by the agencies to be nutritious and liked by his family.
Due to the temperatures registered during this season, Reyna added that indoor distributions to continue for the next two months.
In previous months, distributions were under a drive-thru style where members received food in their cars by staff.
“Indoors make it easier for them and us,” mentioned Reyna.
LEFT: Besides canned goods and frozen meat, families also received fruit during the indoor food distribution on Wednesday at Imperial Valley College.
He noted that Imperial Valley College is a popular distribution site for users, as they register a high demand during events.
“We have busier months towards the end of the year, but for now 250 families is the target,” said Reyna.
With families carrying their bags of food, Reyna reminded that food distributions held at IVC are open to the community.
“Not only do we help students, but also our community,” added Reyna. “This is a great way to connect with them.”
