Federal funding cuts hit FIND Food Bank, CEO reassures public

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) — FIND Food Bank is one of several food banks nationwide impacted by the United States Department of Agriculture's decision to halt $500 million in food deliveries.

Debbie Espinosa, President & CEO of FIND Food Bank, said while one of its federal programs worth $1.5 million was reinstated last week, others were rescinded.

"What did just get cut is another source of food from the federal government that would have resulted in 8 truckloads of food or about 350,000 meals," Espinosa said.

She said the organization remains stable for now but is working to secure long-term support.

"FIND Food Banks supply of food that it receives from the federal government is about 35% of our 20 million pounds that we do annually," Espinosa said. "A little over 5 million pounds is what we receive from the federal government and that food is secure so far, we are hoping that that does not get cut."

The cut comes as grocery prices continue to rise.

"Eggs are still 8 to $10 a dozen at the grocery stores," Espinosa said. "To pause those programs right now or to cancel those programs right now during a time where there's high need is of concern."

However, Espinosa said both Rep. Ken Calvert and Rep. Raul Ruiz are working to address the issue.

"We're very happy that both Congressman Calvert's office, as well as Congressman Ruiz, when we called to let them know about the situation, they were both very receptive to hearing what these effects are on the community," Espinosa said.

She said federal officials did contact the food bank about deliveries not coming in, but did not provide a reason why.

"They've been in contact with us in writing to be able to let us know where they are and the progression of the decisions that are being made for the specific funds that affect us," Espinosa said.

She reassured the public that FIND Food Bank does receive resources from other places including donors and distribution centers.

"We bring in about 365 to 400 truckloads a year," Espinosa said. "Eight truckloads represents a large amount of food that could have been used in order to be able to keep up with the demand that we're seeing that is continually increasing.

She said FIND Food Bank hasn't had to pause any distribution programs out into the community.

"We are still going very strong with regards to the amount of food that we're sending out," Espinosa said. "We look at things for the long term and we want to make sure that we're staying ahead and contacting our federal representatives to make sure that we can have long term support."

For those in need, FIND Food Bank assures that food remains available at its distribution sites.

Stay with News Channel 3 at 10 and 11 p.m. for the full report.