Galilee Center hosts annual backpack giveaway, helping families in need

The Galilee Center in Mecca hosted their annual backpack giveaway on Thursday to help families in need. 

Because of the pandemic, the giveaway was a drive-through event this year. 

“For us to be able to give out 1,000 backpacks to our community just lets us know that we’re stepping forward exactly where we want to go,” said Martha Olvera, Galilee Center. 

Olvera says the annual event was made possible by generous donations and volunteers from the community. 

“Volunteers were in here helping us stuff the backpacks with composition books, paper, notebooks,” said Lupe Torres Hilario, Galilee Center. 

The Galilee Center has been working tirelessly to offer support to the community throughout the pandemic: serving 3,200 meals a month and providing clothing, shelter and other services. 

“We are here for the community,” said Hilario. 

They say they’re always in need of donations, volunteers and support to continue helping those who need it most. 

“All the support that we get from the community...it just tells you how great the Coachella Valley is,” said Olvera. 

If you missed Thursday’s giveaway and still need a backpack or supplies for your child, the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission in Indio is hosting another giveaway event on Saturday, August 7th, starting at 7 a.m. They say your child must be present with you in your car to receive a backpack and supplies.