High Desert Couple Serves Community With Food Bank

YUCCA VALLEY -A new food bank in the hi-desert is helping area residents during the holidays.

James Wilson’s new job includes making sure the shelves and fridge stay stocked at the American Food Bank in Yucca Valley.

Back in August, James and his wife, Brenda, started the area’s first food bank with a can of soup, one loaf of bread and three boxes of mac and cheese. “As long as everybody gets food, that’s what’s important,” says Wilson.

The Wilsons were on the other side of desperation when the 2006 Sawtooth Fire destroyed their home in Pioneertown. They lost almost everything in the fire.

“Everybody opened their hearts. We were devastated after the fire, not knowing what to do,” says Wilson. “This is certainly a way of being able to repay.. make the full circle, giving back to the community.”

It’s not just food. Clothes are also donated and given to the needy.

“There’s a lady in town makes the hats and scarves. She makes them and feels good that that’s her contribution.”

Wilson says the food bank is always looking for more donations. They take care of more than 180 people. Food goes out as soon as it comes in. Area residents pass by, dropping off goods and feeling they’re helping an important part of the community.

“It’s very much needed, especially up here. We don’t have a whole lot. It’s a good cause,” says Morongo Valley resident Pat Rigel.

Adds Wilson, “Whatever it takes, we’re going to be here. It just makes it easier if we can grow and grow and grow.”

For information on American Food Bank, call 760-228-2222 or visit www.foodbankofamerica.org.