The Galilee Center, a resource hub for eastern Coachella Valley farmworkers, has completed its recent expansion, Riverside County officials announced Thursday.
The Center provides resources such as food and clothing to the region, operating the Mecca Comfort Station shower, restroom and laundry facility in addition to serving as an emergency center for unhoused farm workers and people facing natural disasters.
The expanded Center now includes a 6,500-square-foot emergency shelter and separate dormitory-style rooms for men and women, in addition to a remodeled kitchen and 75 additional beds for overnight accommodations, according to county officials.
New spaces in the facilities can also be used as cooling centers for the community.
“The Galilee Center is a resource for the entire region,” said Supervisor V. Manuel Perez in a statement. “The level of services our residents have, the ability to coordinate and quickly mobilize and provide a safe haven in emergencies, is due to having the Galilee Center as a vital partner. This expansion strengthens our community infrastructure in the eastern Coachella Valley.”
A dedication ceremony will be held 11 a.m. Saturday at the Center, located at 66-101 Hammond Road. Among those expected to attend is Bishop Alberto Rojas of the Diocese of San Bernardino.
Funding for the expansion was achieved through multiple sources, including a $1.5 million grant from the county and $2 million from private donors.
“With the additional space and new facilities, we can offer more outreach programs, increase capacity and provide enhanced services to those in need,” founder Gloria Gomez said in a statement.