Hidden Harvest outlines plans for Rancho Mirage senior markets, invites council to fundraiser

Francisco Linares, executive director of the Coachella Valley nonprofit Hidden Harvest, told the Rancho Mirage City Council on Sept. 4 that the organization runs senior markets and a small-farmer purchase program that provides free, fresh produce to seniors and families across the valley. "We make fresh produce free and accessible to our neighbors who need it most," Linares said, describing pop-up farmers-market distributions to affordable-housing sites and senior centers.

Linares said Hidden Harvest purchased a new refrigerated truck to improve transport and keep rescued surplus produce fresh. The organization's programs include senior markets where participants "choose from seasonal fruits and vegetables, always free, dignified, and easy to access," and a small-farm partnership in which Hidden Harvest provides seeds and pays farmers market price at harvest.

He announced a new senior market series beginning next week at Parkview Villas in Rancho Mirage and invited council members and the public to a fundraising luncheon, fashion show and silent auction at Agua Caliente on Nov. 20, which Linares said directly funds more produce for seniors and families. "If you could attend and sponsor a table or donate an auction item, you'll be putting fresh food into local kitchens right away," he said.

Council members thanked Hidden Harvest for its work. Council Member O'Keefe said she had heard positive reports about the quality and quantity of the food since organizational changes last year. The council did not take any formal action on the presentation.