Food Samaritans to Match Giving Tuesday Gifts

Giving Tuesday is a global day of giving

PALM SPRINGS – Food Samaritans (AAP) announced that in conjunction with Giving Tuesday, long-time supporters Tom Andrika and Joe Johnson will match all gifts received on Nov. 29, doubling the impact of all donations.

#GivingTuesday is a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving (in the U.S.) and after the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday kicks off the charitable season when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving. Giving Tuesday harnesses the generosity of millions of people around the world to support the causes they believe in and the communities in which they live.

In a statement, AAP – Food Samaritans Executive Director Mark Anton said, “We hope that you believe that AAP – Food Samaritans, with our grass-roots philosophy, low overhead, and strong volunteer base, is a very worthy charity. We’ve been feeding low-income people living with chronic illnesses in the Coachella Valley since 1991. We can only do this with your help.”

Anton continued: “Donations will be matched by long-time supporters Thomas Andrika and Joseph Johnson, so the impact of each gift will be doubled! These gentlemen are passionate about our mission, and it warms my heart to know that they care so much.”

Since 1991 AAP has been providing nutritional support in the form of Stater Brothers food vouchers to the underserved community in the Coachella Valley. All AAP clients are low-income and living with chronic illness. Most must survive on about $900 per month. Out of that, they must pay rent, utilities, transportation, and buy food. AAP’s clients say that without this 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,” Anton said in a statement. 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. 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.”

Any low-income resident of the greater Palm Springs area who has lived in the community for a year or more and is diagnosed with HIV/AIDS or another life-threatening illness may qualify to receive monthly food vouchers – now $150 each month – redeemable at local Stater Brothers Supermarkets. Dependent children are also eligible for dollar amounts equal to those received by their parent. AAP improves the quality of life of those who need it the most and it helps its clients live healthier lives with dignity and self-respect.

AAP – Food Samaritans is currently accepting new clients. For more information, call 760-325-8481 or visit aapfoodsamaritans.org.