Local Non-Profit Delivers Groceries to Immigrant Families Afraid to Leave Homes During ICE Activity

Grocery deliveries are offering peace of mind to immigrant families who are afraid to leave their homes due to recent ICE activity in the Coachella Valley. TODEC, a local non-profit organization known for defending immigrant rights throughout the region, has launched a new initiative to ensure families don't go without food during this challenging time.

"For a worker, it's a lifeline. They rely on their jobs to make sure they're feeding their families, that they make sure they have their money for rent," said Luz Gallegos, Director of TODEC. "Many families have told us that they're scared of leaving their house. So that's why we started this initiative with the help of many people that are donating food and resources."

The program comes as many families remain afraid to venture outside their homes because of recent ICE operations and reports of immigration agents being present in the community. The fear has created a significant barrier for families trying to access basic necessities like groceries.

"As a valley, we've always come together to support community. And right now, our farm workers and their families are in so much pain and so much fear that we have to continue doing what we can," Gallegos explained.

For recipients like Francis, a mother who received groceries through the program, the impact extends beyond just having food on the table. She shared that the fear has affected both her mental health and her family's daily routine, as they felt unable to leave their home. However, receiving support from the community has given her motivation and hope that someday her family will be able to return to their normal day-to-day activities.

TODEC continues working toward that goal, providing not just groceries but also a sense of community support during an uncertain time for immigrant families in the Coachella Valley. The organization relies on donations of food and resources from community members to sustain this vital service.

To learn more visit todec.org.