What Is The Borrego Springs Community Resource Center?

The Borrego Springs Community Resource Center runs a food bank every Tuesday from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM, offering free groceries to those in need. They also provide a rideshare program for essential travel like grocery shopping and healthcare appointments, aiming to support and improve the community.

Borrego Springs Community Resource Center Celebrates First Year as a Recognized Nonprofit

Nestled in the secluded desert of Borrego Springs, the Community Resource Center (CRC) stands as an essential hub of support for its community. A recent update from BVEFund.org highlighted a significant milestone: the CRC has celebrated its first anniversary as a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Originating from a community-led initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic, the CRC was established to address urgent local needs and continues to serve as a beacon of hope and support in Borrego Springs.

History and Formation

The idea for the CRC was conceived by Anne and Jim Wermers, alongside Thomas Fredericks, who responded to the immediate impact of the pandemic on local employment. “We knew that being without income would be a tremendous hardship for many families and we were determined to do something to help,” Anne Wermers reflected. Initially, their efforts focused on setting up a weekly food bank to address the critical need for sustenance among affected families.

Timeline of Development

• May 2020: The operation starts with a small group of volunteers distributing food purchased through community donations.

• Fall 2020: The volunteer group transitions under the umbrella of the Borrego Springs Youth and Senior Center for more structured support, merging with Martha Deichler’s bi-weekly high school food bank and expanding services.

• April 2023: The CRC is formally incorporated as a 501(c)(3) organization, receiving its IRS Letter of Determination confirming its tax-exempt status.

• June 2023: The BVEF grants the CRC half of their rent cost for one year to support their over 1,500 square foot Food Bank, community programs, and administrative office facility located in The Mall in Borrego Springs.

Expansion and Community Impact

Originally aiding 60 to 70 families weekly, the CRC's reach expanded rapidly. Jim Wermers noted, “Initially, we provided food to 60 to 70 families a week. Over time that number grew to more than 250 families, which is about a quarter of Borrego’s population.” The persistent demand highlighted a continuing need within the community, disproving initial thoughts that needs would decrease post-pandemic.

Financial and Organizational Support

The Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF) played a critical role in the CRC's establishment by funding over $65,000 towards rent subsidies and the incorporation process. David Garmon, Board Chair of the BVEF, emphasized the importance of this support: “The pandemic exposed a need in our community for food and other basic services, and that need has not diminished.”

Current Programs and Services

Today, the CRC offers a broad spectrum of services in partnership with local organizations. These services range from food distribution, educational programs in English and Spanish, legal services, and health education, to support for transportation and internet connectivity. Martha Deichler, the inaugural CRC Board President, proudly states, “The creation of the CRC is an incredible milestone for our community.”

Recent Achievements and Future Outlook

A recent fundraising event exemplified the community’s ongoing generosity, raising over $200,000, bolstered by a $100,000 matching grant. These funds ensure the CRC’s ability to continue and expand its services, meeting the community's needs with new initiatives planned to roll out monthly.

Continuing Commitment: The Borrego Springs Community Resource Center

The Borrego Springs Community Resource Center continues to embody the spirit of community resilience and mutual support. As it progresses beyond its first year, the CRC remains dedicated to enriching the lives of Borrego Springs residents, adapting to their evolving needs, and fostering a supportive community network.

For more information or to support the CRC, please visit www.borregocrc.org.