As Rain BDM alum and Palm Springs resident Nick Latham points out, “Our local tourist industry is hard-hit by the virus, and thousands of laid-off workers need economic assistance.” That’s where The United Way of the Desert has stepped in to “break the cycle of poverty in the Coachella Valley through mobilizing the caring power of the community” has stepped in to assist residents.
Many workers in the Coachella, California region depend on concerts and special events for their income, and the services United Way of the Desert provides have become more critical than ever during the coronavirus pandemic. Working around the clock, the organization provides people with food and water, assists them in paying utility bills, and facilitates access to mental health and health services.
According to a recent United Way of the Desert press release, “Local residents rely on festivals and events to pay their bills and get them through the summer when their hospitality positions may be temporarily cut. Many residents are not afforded sick days, and not showing up at work will not only cost them money from their paychecks, but it may cost them their job. This is why more than ever, nonprofits having enough resources to help in times of crisis is crucial.”
Thanks to Nick, Rain BDM’s “Show Cause” social outreach program is supporting the United Way of the Desert in its mission to assist those suffering in the face of COVID-19. For more information, please visit unitedwayofthedesert.org.
