Inland Congregations United for Change Sees Spike in Demand as Immigration Fears Deepen

Inland Congregations United for Change (ICUC), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting underserved communities across the Coachella Valley, is now struggling to meet a surge in demand for food assistance. The organization, which typically helps feed around 5,000 people each month in the Coachella Valley, says recent fears of immigration enforcement have caused many families—especially farm workers—to avoid work and public places, leaving them dependent on food banks for daily necessities.

“Some people are afraid to even go to the store,” said an ICUC volunteer. “They’re out of work or working fewer hours, and that means they’re also running out of food.”

ICUC sources most of its food from Find Food Bank, which has also reported a drop in donations recently. With the food supply shrinking and the number of families in need growing, organizers say the situation is becoming critical.

Distribution sites in North Shore, Indio, Cathedral City, and Desert Hot Springs are now seeing longer lines and increased demand. ICUC encourages anyone who can to donate directly to their local distribution events to help fill the gap. For many families who haven’t worked in weeks, this support is more than appreciated—it’s essential.