H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation Presents $25,000 Impact Grant
– The H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation awarded a $25,000 Impact Grant to the California State University, San Bernardino Palm Desert Campus to strengthen food access for students experiencing food insecurity. The funds will expand support for the DEN Food Pantry and add a grab-and-go food refrigerator near the campus student center.
“Food insecurity can directly affect a student’s academic performance, physical health and mental well-being,” said Edna Martinez, associate vice president at the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus. “This grant from the Berger Foundation allows us to improve and expand an existing resource for our students while they are attending classes at the Palm Desert Campus.”
The grant will help increase the availability of staple grocery items at the DEN, including rice, pasta, canned proteins, fruits, vegetables, cereal, and other essentials. Additionally, a refrigerator will be placed near the Rancho Mirage Student Center, providing convenient access to food on the opposite side of campus from the DEN, where students already spend time.
“We appreciate that leaders at the Cal State San Bernardino, Palm Desert Campus were thoughtful in finding ways to expand a program that addresses students’ needs,” said Catharine Reed, Vice President of Charitable Programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. “These upgrades will have an immediate and measurable impact.”
Program success will be measured through distribution data, restocking trends, and student feedback. The project is aimed at improving long-term infrastructure for student well-being and retention. The goal is to offer equitable, dignified, and convenient access to food for students balancing academic demands, work and family responsibilities.
“The California State University, San Bernardino Palm Desert Campus and the Berger Foundation have found a practical solution for a real challenge,” said Jerry Upham. “This is exactly the type of partnership that we are proud to be a part of and showcase.”
Impact Grants are a partnership between News Channel 3 and the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. Representatives from both entities look for local 501(c)(3) nonprofits to recognize for their outstanding work to improve people’s lives and help those in need. Impact Grants are awarded on the concept that through service, funding, and awareness, we are “Making a Difference Together.” Beyond the grant, each organization also receives media coverage about its mission across a variety of News Channel 3’s platforms, including News Channel 3 News at 4 and kesq.com.
To learn more about the California State University, San Bernardino Palm Desert Campus, visit www.csusb.edu/pdc. For more information about Impact Grants, go to www.kesq.com/life/impact-grants.
