Valley families help shelter families impacted by coronavirus pandemic

Bags full of essential goods, people were lined up outside the Westfield Mall in Palm Desert to drop off donations all to help Martha's Village and Kitchen.

"Thats what we are here for to help each other out," said Gwen Hagerman from Indio.

Palm Desert resident, Josh Paquette, was first in line as the drive opened Friday. He wanted to do his part to help Coachella Valley families impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

"My boys wanted to share some things and we brought them out here so hopefully someone will have some fun with them," said Paquette.

Paquette's donations and like many others will help support families living at the shelter. Plus, those using their services.

"I think its very nice that people are donating to us because its a hard time for everybody especially us here, who are struggling, " said Robin Williams.

Robin Williams started living at the shelter five months ago with her two children and since the pandemic, there have been changes.

"we're only allowed to leave once a week, we are quarantined here," said Williams. "So when we are at the store, we are rushing and there are empty shelves and there are things that we really need especially for the babies."

Donations collected at the Westfield Mall will help with the emergency pantry at Martha's Village and Kitchen, which helps over 6,000 individuals a year and due to the pandemic the numbers are growing.

"We're seeing a rising increase of new people seeking assistance," said Larissa Kersetter.

Director of Philanthropy at Martha's Village & Kitchen Larissa Kerstetter said with a limited staff now and not many donations coming in like before they need all the help.

"This particular pandemic is so hard for our families that live here," said Kerstetter. "They are upstairs in a really small room. So having those support resources at Martha's is vital."

Martha's Village & Kitchen Drive at Westfield Mall in Palm Desert hours

Friday, Saturday and Sunday 12:00 p.m- 6:00 p.m.

Needed items: diapers, baby wipes, formula, toiletries, shampoo, toothpaste, soap, children's crafts, books and toys.