Palm Springs neighborhoods are stepping up in a big way this summer as The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert and ONE‑PS launch the ONE‑PS Community Food Drive Challenge, a friendly citywide competition designed to support The Center’s Community Food Bank during the months when need is highest and donations are lowest. Running July 1 through August, the challenge invites residents across every Palm Springs neighborhood to collect food, pet food, and monetary donations to help fight food insecurity—an issue affecting thousands of local households.
Summer is historically the most difficult period for the food bank. According to the 2025 HARC Community Health Survey, one in four Coachella Valley adults has had to cut or skip meals due to financial strain, and one in ten has gone an entire day without food. The Center’s Community Food Bank currently provides free, nutritious groceries and essential items to more than 500 households each week, making community participation vital.
Charles Huff, Director of Food Security at The Center, emphasizes that this challenge transforms neighborhood pride into meaningful action: “Palm Springs residents can directly support community members facing hunger, including vulnerable individuals, families, and seniors.” The initiative also aims to establish a long‑term tradition that strengthens community bonds while addressing a critical need.
At the end of August, the neighborhood contributing the greatest amount of food by weight will earn The Center’s Community Food Bank Silver Bowl, a traveling trophy awarded annually. Additional honors include the Heart of the Community Award for the most dollars raised and the Neighborhood Spirit Award for the most creative donation campaign.
Residents can drop off food and pet food at The Community Food Bank or The Center during designated hours. Monetary donations and full challenge details—including how neighborhoods can participate—are available at thecentercv.org/one-ps.