(PALM SPRINGS, CA – November 6, 2008)

Following the successful launch of its Entre Mujeres (Between Women) program for low-income, Hispanic women in August, 100 Women at Desert AIDS Project is hoping for more of the community’s generous spirit as they begin a holiday food drive.

“We were so grateful for the community’s response as they donated an amazing amount of health and hygiene items,” said Dr. Joy White, a member of both 100 Women and D.A.P.’s Board of Directors. “We hope that they will answer our call once again for a holiday drive benefiting needy women and children.”

The hope is to provide each family with a paper grocery bag filled with about $15 worth of groceries, along with bilingual information on HIV prevention and care from D.A.P. The groceries will be items that WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) families do not receive with vouchers but that would be much appreciated at the holidays. Suggested items for donation include bags of dried fruit; canned sweet potatoes, corn, green beans, carrots, etc.; canned applesauce and fruits, such as cranberries; canned or bottled salsa; canned ham; boxed items such as corn bread, cakes, or cookies; and more.

Donations may be dropped off at D.A.P.’s main facility at 1695 N. Sunrise in Palm Springs. It is requested that donations be brought in paper grocery bags for distribution through the Palm Springs WIC office to families in Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Desert Hot Springs, and Whitewater. Although distribution to families will begin on December 1, donations will be accepted at D.A.P. through December 15.

If you’d like to know more, please contact Colleen Showalter at 760-323-2118, ext. 257 or cshowalter@desertaidsproject.org.

Desert AIDS Project is the organization in our community where people living with HIV and AIDS can receive comprehensive support, including medical care, case management, and social services. D.A.P. also offers free and confidential HIV testing – with results in about 20 minutes – at a number of locations and widespread education and prevention services for schools, civic organizations, businesses, churches, and health organizations throughout the communities it serves. For more information, visit desertaidsproject.org or call 760-323-2118.