The Desert Healthcare District and Foundation has announced a donation of $50,000 to aid over 120 Coachella Valley families who experienced trauma, property damage or loss due to Tropical Storm Hilary. The storm passed through the region in August, subjecting communities to an exceptional amount of rainfall.
A press release from the Desert Healthcare District indicated that Cathedral City, Mecca, North Shore, Oasis and Thermal were among the most severely affected areas. In certain communities, extensive damage and impassable roads have made it challenging for families to return to their homes.
In October, as per the same press release, the Desert Healthcare District arranged two listening sessions with residents to directly hear from those impacted by the storm.
"They brought to the forefront many issues that they have been dealing with since the storm, ranging from post traumatic stress disorder to farmworkers' inability to work after their crops were destroyed," said Evett PerezGil, Board President of Desert Healthcare District who attended these sessions.
According to the press release from Desert Healthcare District, the organization determined what was needed based on these listening sessions. As a result, two allocations were made: $10,000 will be given to the Chance Initiative for creating a behavioral health resource list in English and Spanish for families affected by Hilary; while $40,000 will be allocated to TODEC for collaborating with community partners in order to help families in eastern valley access direct support services.
"Because the storm's aftermath was rare and largely unexpected, it required the District and our partners to work together to identify residents' health and wellness needs across the valley. We are optimistic that the assistance approved by our Board will help in community recovery," stated Alejandro Espinoza, Chief of Community Engagement at Desert Healthcare District.