Inaugural Community Connect Day Brings Together Valuable Resources
EL CENTRO – Those in need of housing, food, healthcare, and other essential resources are encouraged to attend the inaugural Community Connect Day hosted by the Imperial Valley Food Bank (IVFB) on Wednesday, September 20th, 2023. The event will together more than 15 local agencies from 3 PM to 6 PM inside the Imperial Valley Mall in front of Macy's to meet with locals and provide valuable on-site information and assistance.
“Community Connect Day helps promote the resources locally available in real time,” shared Isabel Andrade, IVFB Outreach Manager. “Our goal is to encourage everyone who may need assistance to join us and learn about the local services available that could relieve the hardships some are experiencing in the community.”
This free event fostered connection, education, and empowerment among community members by bringing crucial agencies and services together in one place. Participating agencies included Woman Haven Wellness Program, Imperial County Behavioral Health Pet program, Project Food Box/Sunterra, Imperial Irrigation District, Innercare, Planned Parenthood, Campesinos Unidos, LGBT Resource Center, Barron’s Enterprise Income Tax & Immigration Services, Center for Employment Training, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights/LISTOS, Farmacias del Pueblo, Calexico Wellness Center, and Ser Jobs For Progress, Inc.
“Each of these agencies plays an essential role in our community and they're eager to provide you with information, assistance, and support,” said Andrade.
Attendees were able to win raffle prizes during the festivities as each participating agency provided a gift basket to include in the event’s raffle.
Beyond the agencies present, there was also musical entertainment provided by Mariachi Amanecer of the Imperial Valley. This exceptional mariachi group was founded in 2019 by director and guitarrón player David Galindo, who led the group in creating an unforgettable musical experience.
Adding to the cultural richness of this event, Sunshine Folkloric Ballet, a local folkloric dance group led by Hilda Parra, also performed during the event. According to Parra, the dancers were passionate about sharing Mexican culture and traditions with young and older generations alike.
In addition to discovering incredible local agencies and enjoying fantastic entertainment, attendees also had an opportunity to learn about the programs and services offered by the food bank.
Imperial Valley Food Bank staff were available to provide information about CalFresh assistance, the Weekend Backpack Program and helped community members register on-site for monthly food distributions. Attendees also learned about volunteer opportunities within the food bank’s warehouse or at mobile food distributions throughout Imperial County.
“Whether you need assistance or simply want to celebrate the diversity and strength of our community, this is the place to be,” Andrade said.