BorregoCRC

Endurance Cyclist Fred Lacroix Community Talk

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 05:01:09 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Endurance cyclist Fred Lacroix spoke at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center on February 6 , offering a concise look at his path into long-distance handcycling and the discipline behind ultra-endurance racing. The program included a talk followed by audience questions. Light snacks were provided as part of the evening program.

Lacroix explained how becoming a wheelchair user marked a full reset and how choosing movement shaped his future.

“It’s not a turn in your life. It’s a new life to start.”

He shared that his early racing was done in racing wheelchairs before transitioning to handcycling , which allowed longer training sessions and endurance-focused competition.

“Immediately, it was like a spark. I was comfortable, and I could ride for hours.”

He briefly touched on major efforts, including riding Pikes Peak , noting that altitude success depends on long-term acclimation rather than last-minute effort. He also outlined the 6–12–24 Hour World Time Trial Championships , where athletes race over extended hours on a closed course and where he later earned first place in his age division.

Lacroix closed by emphasizing the broader message behind the talk:

“I asked to organize this presentation not to speak about me, but about what we can do—disabled or not. Sport is important for everybody.”

The evening highlighted the Community Resource Center’s role in hosting informative programs that connect Borrego Springs with global experience through local conversation.

Borrego Caregiver Corps

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 21:47:23 GMT

WHO WE ARE

BCC caregivers assist with housekeeping and personal care, and receive training in First Aid, CPR, Safety and common medical conditions. Currently, 15 caregivers are available to serve our community.

THE PROBLEM

Borrego Springs has a large percentage of older adults who are no longer able to independently manage housekeeping and personal care, and is also home to families with young adults who are seeking career opportunities.

THE SOLUTION

For Borregans who need a little extra help to live independently at home, and our young families that need job opportunities, the Borrego Caregiver Corps* (BCC) is a Win/Win.

THE BENEFITS

● Keep our community pillars here in Borrego for life: With support, no one needs to relocate to assisted living facilities far from Borrego Springs

● Healthcare: Building a workforce prepared to do the jobs needed to provide services here in Borrego Springs

● Resource expansion: Caregivers can continue the Healthcare Career Ladder using local Community College programs to become Certified Nursing/Medical assistant; LVN or RN

● Collaboration potential: Primary Care practices (DAP, STAT); Borrego USD; Borrego Ministers Association; Borrego Springs Community Resource Center; Rotary; Soroptimists

WHAT'S NEXT

Exploring opportunities to develop Adult Day Programs and Residential facilities in collaboration with Borrego property owners as the healthcare workforce expands to support growth.

*Picture of BCC annual meeting on 10/24/2025 with Kit Fox Outfitters providing training through a program organized through the Borrego Village Association thanks to a generous grant from the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund

Check the calendar for updates!

Fall CRC Newsletter

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 15:46:33 GMT

Borrego Springs Community Resource Center

You’ll find a lot happening at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center (CRC) right now—from expanded food and transportation services to cultural celebrations and new caregiver opportunities. This recap highlights what CRC is doing to support health, independence, and connection in Borrego Springs, plus details about the upcoming two-year anniversary open house.

A Message from Executive Director Martha Deichler

Hello Friends! There is so much good happening at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center, especially around health and quality of life for local residents.

The weekly Food Bank is serving more people as SNAP (Food Coupons) support is reduced.
Let’s Go Borrego, the CRC transportation program, is connecting more residents to medical appointments and services.
Cultural programming like Ballet Folklórico and Día de los Muertos brings color, music, and tradition to the CRC campus.

Martha also extends an open invitation to celebrate CRC’s two years of service at an upcoming open house.

Celebrating Two Years of Community Service

The Community Resource Center invites everyone to an Open House on Saturday, November 22, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM , marking two years of dedicated service to Borrego Springs.

This milestone brings neighbors together to recognize CRC’s role in:

Providing essential support and outreach
Offering programs that improve health and independence
Creating a hub where residents can connect and learn

Guests can enjoy an evening of food, wine, and conversation , in appreciation of the volunteers, partners, and supporters who make CRC programs possible.

Food Bank: Meeting a Growing Need

The CRC Food Bank is experiencing heightened demand due to reduced SNAP funding and concerns about food shortages.

Up to 320 people per week are now being served.
Households receive staples like beans, rice, canned tuna, and fresh produce.
One of CRC’s key partners, Feeding San Diego, is facing a drop in federal funding, which reduces the overall amount of food available for distribution.

CRC continues to request additional support from Feeding San Diego and the San Diego Food Bank to keep pace with local needs.

Día de los Muertos at the CRC

Día de los Muertos is a joyful Mexican tradition that honors loved ones who have passed on. At the CRC, it is celebrated as a vibrant expression of memory, community, and culture.

Key elements of Día de los Muertos include:

Altars (ofrendas): With favorite foods, drinks, and mementos for the departed
Marigolds: Guiding spirits with color and scent
Candles: Providing light so spirits can find their way
Pan de Muerto: Bread decorated with bone-like shapes symbolizing the circle of life
Sugar skulls: Representing the souls of the departed in a playful, colorful way

The celebration blends Indigenous traditions with Catholic influences, and at CRC it creates a shared space for reflection, remembrance, and community pride.

Borrego Caregiver Corps: Supporting Independent Living

Borrego Springs has many older adults who need help with daily tasks, as well as families looking for local job opportunities. The Borrego Caregiver Corps (BCC) connects these needs.

Highlights of the program:

Caregivers assist with:
Housekeeping
Personal care
Safety and daily living tasks
Training includes:
First Aid
CPR
Safety
Common medical conditions
15 trained caregivers are currently available to serve the community.

The care recipient is the employer—responsible for hiring, supervising, and, if needed, dismissing the caregiver.

Program coordination and contacts:

BCC is coordinated by BSCRC Board Director Chesney Hoagland-Fuchs, RN
Call 619-750-8339 for help connecting with caregivers.
Medi-Cal’s In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) pays for caregivers for eligible elderly or disabled residents.
For IHSS information, call 866-351-7722 .

Private-pay arrangements between caregivers and clients are also possible for those who do not qualify for IHSS.

Let’s Go Borrego: Rides for Health

The CRC transportation program, Let’s Go Borrego , is growing steadily:

15 new riders have enrolled since May 2025.
The service focuses on rides to medical appointments and treatments for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
CRC recently received a $190,000 grant dedicated to driver reimbursement—an important investment in rural health access.

Let’s Go Borrego improves the health of Borregans one ride at a time , reducing barriers for those who might otherwise struggle to reach essential care.

Class Spotlight: Ballet Folklórico

Ballet Folklórico: Las Flores del Desierto is a dedicated group of 12 local women in Borrego Springs who preserve and perform traditional Mexican folkloric dance.

Their mission is to:

Celebrate the beauty and richness of Mexican culture
Share meaningful, energetic performances with the community
Serve as cultural ambassadors for Borrego Springs

The dancers perform with heart and purpose, bringing pride, connection, and happiness to local audiences. Costumes are a significant expense, so donations are always appreciated to help sustain the group.

Borrego Community Resource Center Honored for Service

Sat, 04 Oct 2025 03:59:54 GMT

Borrego Community Resource Center receives Award of Appreciation from Honorary Mayor Daniel Wright for exceptional service to the Borrego Springs community.

On June 12, 2025, the Borrego Community Resource Center received an Award of Appreciation from the Honorary Mayor of Borrego Springs, Daniel Wright. This recognition acknowledges the center’s consistent and exceptional service to the Borrego Springs community.

The framed certificate reads:
“This award is presented to Borrego Community Resource Center in appreciation of your exceptional service to the Community of Borrego Springs.”

The award highlights the essential role the center plays in supporting local residents through services, resources, and compassionate assistance. As the community continues to face evolving needs, the Resource Center remains a steady presence committed to the wellbeing of Borrego Springs.

Signed by Honorary Mayor Daniel Wright, the award reinforces the shared values of service and community care that define Borrego Springs.

Pop-Up Dental Screenings Offered at CRC

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:36:56 GMT

Free Dental Screenings in Borrego Springs

DAP Health’s Mobile Dental Unit will be in Borrego Springs on Tuesday, September 16, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Community Resource Center.

This event provides free dental screenings and protective treatment for all ages. The unit will be closed for lunch from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

Building on Recent Success

Earlier this year, on May 14, the CRC hosted a similar one-day pop-up clinic in partnership with DAP Health. The Mobile Dental Unit was stationed outside The Mall on Palm Canyon Drive, making preventive care easy to access for local residents.

Why It Matters

Access to dental care can be challenging in rural areas. By bringing services directly to Borrego Springs, DAP Health makes it possible for community members to receive preventive screenings, oral health information, and protective treatment without leaving town.

Expanding Healthcare Access

DAP Health continues to strengthen local healthcare through its integration with Borrego Health. Current offerings include primary care, pediatrics, women’s health, mental health, dentistry, the MyChart patient portal, and the Borrego Springs Pharmacy.

Supporting Community Health

The Community Resource Center is proud to provide space for programs that support wellness in Borrego Springs. Alongside food assistance and transportation support, hosting the Mobile Dental Unit reflects the CRC’s commitment to improving healthcare access for all residents.

Summer CRC Newsletter

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 22:14:42 GMT

A Message from Executive Director: Martha Deichler

Hello, Friends. It might be 111 degrees outside, but the Community Resource Center (CRC) is enjoying cool activities all summer long! From our fabulously successful Food Bank to classes in Ballet Folklorico, citizenship, and computer skills, the CRC is continuously moving forward and responding to the needs in our rural community.

Please take a minute and read about our activities and classes.

This success would not be possible without the generous contributions of our donors!

As we enter our 3rd year in operation, we wish to thank you for your support, and we look forward to another year of improving and enriching the lives of folks in our community.

MEET THE TEAM

Our Hardworking CRC Board

From left to right: Susan Percival, Diane Johnson, Lorry Seagrim, Dale Jones, Martha Deichler, Jim Wermers, Sylvia Maas, Chesney Hoagland Fuchs, Dick Troy, Eddie Rivera (on zoom)

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: SILVIA ARAMBULA

Silvia is hard working, efficient, caring and smart. She leads both the Food Bank and Let’s Go Borrego programs along with giving input and development of our new programs. Her work directly impacts hundreds of residents — thank you, Silvia!

ST. BARNABAS FOOD BANK - SUMMER LOCATION

During the summer months, CRC is providing space for the St. Barnabas Food Bank to operate indoors out of the heat.

Check the CRC calendar for August

LET'S GO BORREGO GRANT SECURED

The CRC has received a federal grant to support Let’s Go Borrego, a medical transportation program that reimburses drivers who take residents to out-of-town appointments.

To register or learn more, contact Silvia Arambula at 760-237-8205.

COMMUNITY RECOGNITION

The Borrego Springs Community Resource Center (CRC) has been recognized for its commitment to the community and all the services being offered. The CRC has truly become the hub of activity in Borrego Springs and has quickly become a vital part of our town.

FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS

Thanks to the San Diego County Neighborhood Reinvestment Grant, the CRC now has beautiful new flooring and a new sink with hot water, a commercial refrigerator, and cabinetry to support safe and a functional space for public use. Stop by and see our new look.

GROWING PROGRAMS

Our class offerings continue to expand and are open to all community members. Current and upcoming programs include:

Ballet Folklorico
Citizenship Preparation
Beading
Grief Support Group
English/Spanish Classes
Introductory Computer Classes

RESOURCE COLLABORATION IN ACTION

Through partnerships with organizations like DAP Health, free dental and health screenings as well as Medi-Cal assistance has been provided at the CRC. Stay tuned for upcoming pop-up clinics.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

We continue to offer a variety of ongoing programs at the CRC:

Jewelry Making
Dog Training
BMA Food Coupon Distribution
Health & Human Services
AA Meetings
Food Bank Distribution

42,000 LBS OF PRODUCE DISTRIBUTED

Through our partnership with Food Forward, we’ve distributed over 42,000 lbs of fresh produce in recent months. Watch for announcements about the next delivery — everyone is welcome.

July 23: DAP Health at Borrego Springs CRC

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:00:25 GMT

On Tuesday, July 23 , DAP Health provided free, confidential services at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center from 11 AM to 2 PM. The event featured:

Blood pressure screenings
Glucose checks
Medi-Cal enrollment assistance
Health-related giveaways

No insurance or appointment was required. The walk-in format made it easy for anyone in the community to participate. These wellness days help increase access to care and support for residents in Borrego Springs and the surrounding areas.

For future events and updates, visit our calendar.

Free Screenings and Support in Borrego Springs

Free Beading Workshop Saturdays

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 17:59:18 GMT

Create Jewelry, Learn, Connect at the Resource Center

Every Saturday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center becomes a vibrant space of creativity, learning, and connection. Diana Fox, a local artist and jewelry-maker, leads a free weekly workshop that welcomes all ages and skill levels to dive into the art of beading.

Whether you're a beginner or experienced in jewelry-making, Diana offers hands-on teaching, guidance, and encouragement. She’ll show you how to design your own pieces, fix broken favorites, and even learn techniques you can use at home. With her collection of unique and colorful beads, every session brings new opportunities to explore, create, and express yourself.

Children, adults, and seniors are all invited—and no one leaves without a smile and something new to wear or share. The workshop is part of the Resource Center’s mission to provide free programs that strengthen community connection and well-being .

Where and When:

Borrego Springs Community Resource Center

587 Palm Canyon Dr #125

Every Saturday, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM
Free to attend – materials provided

About the Community Resource Center
This program is part of the Center’s broader efforts to support Borrego Springs residents with food, transportation, and wellness programs. Learn more at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center or check the calendar for other free events.

Grief Support

Sun, 11 May 2025 05:37:55 GMT

A Compassionate Space to Navigate Loss

The local Grief Group meets at the Community Resource Center to offer a welcoming, non-denominational space for those experiencing loss. Whether you're grieving a loved one, a life transition, or another form of loss, this group provides support through shared experience and guided conversation.

Check our Calendar for updates.

Led by a local minister and supported by the Borrego Ministers Association , the group is grounded in compassion, listening, and connection. All are welcome.

Why Attend?

Connect with others who understand what you’re going through
Share your story in a safe, respectful environment
Receive guidance from a trained local facilitator
Take steps toward healing in a supportive community

Location

Community Resource Center (CRC)

587 Palm Canyon Dr #125
Borrego Springs, CA 92004

Phone: (619) 948-5900

For more information, visit the Borrego Ministers Association website.

A Message from Executive Director: Martha Deichler

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 10:00:59 GMT

Resource Center News: Grants and New Programs

A Message from Executive Director: Martha Deichler

We are excited to announce our receipt of two grants to improve the facilities and services at the Resource Center. San Diego County’s Neighborhood Revitalization Grant for $39,000 will be used to improve the flooring in the Center as well as to install a sink with hot water and storage cabinets. These will allow our facility to be a safer place for the public and for our volunteers.

The Borrego Valley Endowment Fund’s $6,750 grant will be used to purchase a large reach-in refrigerator for the Food Bank. This will allow us to receive additional perishables and store them safely between food distributions. We are grateful to BVEF and the County for realizing the vital role the Resource Center plays in Borrego Springs.

Along with the facility improvements at the Resource Center, we continue to add services for the community based on feedback and requests. Our Calendar lists these on our website.

Spotlight on Our Current Programs

In each newsletter we plan on focusing on one of our programs at a time, to help give a more detailed understanding of its purpose.

Let’s Go Borrego

Living in a rural community like Borrego Springs, our elder, disabled and low income populations often face transportation challenges. Quality of life is affected when they are unable to receive healthcare services, shop for fresh, nutritious, affordable food and stay connected with family and friends. Based on a Transportation Assessment conducted in 2020 and the Borrego Springs Senior Center Assessment in 2019, Let’s Go Borrego was born through the Borrego Springs Community Revitalization Subcommittee. Let’s Go Borrego is a Volunteer Driver program. It was based on a well-established BRIDGES program that operates in Stanislaus County since 2009.

A Rider Provided Driver (RPD) volunteer program is a community-based transportation program which relies on a rider’s personal network to find drivers for a trip. Riders are reimbursed for mileage at the rate of $0.50 per mile, 330 miles a month. Riders report monthly trips based on Google-calculated mileage, reimbursement checks are mailed to the rider, who pays his/her driver.

An application process ensures that the riders meet the eligibility criteria.

Drivers can be friends, neighbors, or family members. Trip destination and times are arranged between the rider and driver. Because drivers are chosen by the rider, the organization does not need to provide a vehicle or driver liability insurance. This type of volunteer driver program is used in Borrego Springs for destinations outside of the area including San Diego, Poway, Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley, and Calexico.

For further information, or to register for Let's Go Borrego, please call Silvia Arambula at 760-237-8205.

New Programs at the CRC

We are currently working on obtaining the necessary permits and insurance to offer 3–4 hours of daycare for Alzheimer’s patients in order for their caregivers to receive a much-needed respite. Watch our online calendar for details.

Borrego Valley Stewardship Council

As a newly adopted program under the CRC we want to keep you updated here on what we are working on. We have been very busy wrapping our final deliverables as part of our grant funding under Prop 68. We have spent the last 18 months hosting Borrego Us, Townhalls, and collecting data on the vision for Borrego Springs. Our last task is to present a draft white paper on Environmental and Community Resiliency for public review and comment. We want to add your feedback into the final draft.

You can learn more here: Environmental and Community Resiliency White Paper - Borrego Valley Stewardship Council

Bri Ford
Executive Director
Anza-Borrego Foundation
TheABF.org

Food Coupon Distribution - Borrego Ministers Association

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 05:48:00 GMT

If you or someone you know in Borrego Springs needs help with food, the Borrego Ministers Association (BMA) offers a weekly food Coupon distribution program through the Community Resource Center (CRC).

The BMA is a volunteer-led coalition of local churches and faith leaders who work together to respond to community needs. One of their most impactful programs is the food Coupon initiative, which provides assistance to residents struggling with food insecurity.

How the Food Coupons Work

Each Wednesday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, residents can come to the CRC to sign up and receive Coupons, which are redeemable at local participating stores in Borrego Springs. These Coupons function like store credit and can be used to purchase groceries and essential items.

This system ensures that people in need can choose their own food, maintain privacy, and support local businesses — making it a win-win for the entire community.

Where to Sign Up

Community Resource Center (CRC)

587 Palm Canyon Dr #125
Borrego Springs, CA 92004

(619) 948-5900

Weekly Help at Borrego Springs CRC

San Diego County Health and Human Services

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 05:42:00 GMT

Monthly Assistance at Borrego Springs CRC

If you need help enrolling in public benefits like CalFresh , CalWORKs , or Medi-Cal , representatives from San Diego County Health and Human Services are available in person each month in Borrego Springs.

You can get one-on-one assistance on the first Tuesday of every month from 11:15 AM to 2:15 PM at the Community Resource Center (CRC) . No appointment is required.

What Services Are Offered?

CalFresh : Food assistance benefits to help you buy groceries
CalWORKs : Cash aid and services for families with children
Medi-Cal : Free or low-cost health coverage for qualified individuals

County representatives can help you:

Apply for benefits
Check eligibility
Submit documentation
Ask questions about your case

Location for Assistance

Community Resource Center (CRC)

587 Palm Canyon Dr #125
Borrego Springs, CA 92004

(619) 948-5900

Tip

This monthly visit is a valuable opportunity to speak directly with county staff without having to travel outside of Borrego Springs. Be sure to check the CRC calendar in case the date shifts due to holidays.

Food Bank

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 05:41:00 GMT

If you're experiencing food insecurity in Borrego Springs, you are not alone—and support is available. The Community Resource Center (CRC) operates a weekly food bank every Tuesday from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM , serving more than 285 families each week .

There are no eligibility requirements, no ID checks, and no income limits . The food bank feeds everyone. This is a welcoming space with no discrimination —everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

What You Can Expect

Each week, the CRC distributes a variety of healthy and nutritious food , including fresh produce, shelf-stable pantry items, and essentials. Whether you are picking up food for your family or for a neighbor in need, the food bank is here for you.

This service is made possible through community partnerships and support from Feeding San Diego .

Find Additional Food Support in San Diego County

Feeding San Diego maintains a searchable map of food distribution sites across the region. You can find additional assistance by entering your ZIP code into their Find Food

Feeding San Diego provides food to:

Children and families
Seniors
College students
Military families and veterans
People experiencing homelessness
All other underserved individuals and households

Location for Weekly Distribution

Community Resource Center (CRC)

587 Palm Canyon Dr #125
Borrego Springs, CA 92004

Phone: (619) 948-5900

Not in Borrego Springs? Find a Free Food Distribution Near You

Find the Help You Need, When and Where You Need It

AA Meetings

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 05:39:00 GMT

Weekly Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings at the CRC

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provides a safe, confidential space for healing and recovery in Borrego Springs.

Weekly meetings take place at the Community Resource Center (CRC) :

Wednesdays at 7:30 PM
Sundays at 11:00 AM

These gatherings are open to all and offer a non-judgmental, supportive environment for individuals seeking help at any stage of recovery.

What to Expect

AA meetings are peer-led and based on shared experience, mutual respect, and a commitment to recovery. Whether you are attending for the first time or continuing your recovery journey, you are welcome.

There are no fees and no registration is required—just come when you’re ready.

Meeting Location

Community Resource Center (CRC)

587 Palm Canyon Dr #125
Borrego Springs, CA 92004

Phone: (619) 948-5900

These weekly meetings ensure that individuals in Borrego Springs have consistent access to alcohol recovery support close to home. If you or someone you care about needs help, resources are available.

Founding Donors Make a Difference

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:10:12 GMT

Honoring the Community Resource Center’s Earliest Supporters

The Community Resource Center in Borrego Springs was built on generosity, collaboration, and a shared vision for a stronger, more connected community. Today, we recognize and thank the individuals and organizations whose early contributions made this space possible.

These founding donors provided the financial support, encouragement, and trust needed to launch a center that now serves Borrego Springs year-round. From youth programming to senior services, food access to art events, their belief in our mission created the foundation we continue to build upon.

Our Founding Donors

Borrego Valley Endowment Fund

Rams Hill

Anne & Jim Wermers

Anonymous

Jack McGrory

Sandy Hansberger & Dave Barr

Diane Johnson

Martha Deichler

Curt Yaws

Dick Troy

Dr. Robert & Valerie Collins

Nancy & Dan Wright

Youth & Seniors Center

Hal & Francie Kibby

Rebecca Lent

The Community Resource Center stands today as a welcoming place for everyone in Borrego Springs — a hub for support, creativity, learning, and community gatherings. None of this would be possible without our founding donors.

If you’ve attended a class, shared a meal, received support, or made a new friend here, you’ve experienced the impact of their generosity.

Borrego Springs Resource Center: Serving the Community

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 21:58:10 GMT

Investing in Community Spaces

The Borrego Springs Resource Center continues to invest in creating a safe and welcoming environment for residents and volunteers. Facility improvements include new flooring throughout the building, the installation of a sink with hot water, and the addition of new storage cabinets. These updates ensure the Resource Center remains a clean, efficient, and supportive space for community services.

Expanding Food Bank Services

To better serve the nutritional needs of Borrego Springs residents, the Resource Center has upgraded its Food Bank operations with the addition of a new commercial reach-in refrigerator. This enhancement allows for safe storage of fresh and perishable foods, increasing the variety and quality of items available during food distributions.

Transportation Support: Let’s Go Borrego

Recognizing the transportation challenges faced by elderly, disabled, and low-income residents, the Resource Center operates Let’s Go Borrego — a mileage reimbursement program. This service helps residents access healthcare, shopping, and essential appointments by offering financial support for transportation costs.

Developing Caregiver Support Services

The Resource Center is working to introduce a short-term daycare program specifically designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. This initiative will offer caregivers much-needed respite while providing a safe and supportive environment for their loved ones.

Planning for a Resilient Future

The Borrego Valley Stewardship Council, a program supported by the Resource Center, is focused on long-term community and environmental planning. The Council’s white paper on Environmental and Community Resiliency gathers community input and outlines strategies to strengthen Borrego Springs for future generations.

The Borrego Springs Resource Center remains committed to supporting the health, connection, and resilience of the community — now and into the future.

How the Community Resource Center and Food Bank Began

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 10:00:59 GMT

A Story of Community, Compassion, and Action

The Community Resource Center (CRC) and Food Bank in Borrego Springs were born out of urgent need and the spirit of neighbors helping neighbors.

In the early days of the pandemic, as businesses closed and paychecks stopped, Borrego Springs faced a crisis. Residents Anne and Jim Wermers, together with Thomas Fredericks, quickly realized the hardship families would face without steady income. Determined to help, they created a weekly food bank — purchasing food, organizing volunteers, and distributing essential items to anyone in need.

By May 2020, dozens of volunteers had joined the effort. All food had to be purchased and transported to Borrego Springs by volunteers, fueled by donations from community members who stepped up immediately and generously.

As the need grew — from helping 60 families a week to over 250 — it became clear the operation needed a formal structure. The Wermers and Fredericks partnered with Dan Wright, President of the Borrego Springs Youth and Senior Center, to bring the food bank under its nonprofit umbrella. They moved into a larger space, combined efforts with Martha Deichler’s high school food bank, and expanded services.

In recognition of its importance, the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF) provided over $65,000 to support the CRC’s permanent establishment, covering rent and incorporation costs. Board Chair David Garmon reflected, “The pandemic exposed a need in our community for food and other basic services, and that need has not diminished.”

From the beginning, handwritten thank-you notes from Anne Wermers reminded every donor of the personal gratitude behind the effort. The CRC’s mission quickly grew beyond food: partnerships formed with local organizations, and classes, transportation services, and legal assistance followed.

As inaugural Board President Martha Deichler said, “The creation of the CRC is an incredible milestone for our community.” Today, the CRC continues to provide weekly food to over 250 families, and it remains financially reliant on the generosity of donors who believe in the power of community.

When you donate canned and packaged food today, you are not only helping fill holiday tables — you are continuing the story that began with a simple, powerful idea:

No one in Borrego Springs should go without.