BMA & Stores Provide Local Food Vouchers
July 14, 2025

A Community Partnership Supporting Families in Need


The Borrego Ministers Association (BMA) grocery voucher program offers vital support to local families during times of need. This ongoing effort is made possible through generous, long-term partnerships with Borrego Springs’ small businesses.


For many years, Mitzi Poulin of Center Market has matched BMA’s monthly voucher purchases with in-kind donations—making her our largest individual contributor. In 2023 alone, her donated vouchers exceeded $30,000 in value.


The Desert Pantry has also supported the program by offering discounted vouchers and serving as a reliable partner to the local food bank since its inception.


Supporting these small businesses is essential. Unlike large chains, our local markets face high energy and labor costs and don’t benefit from volume discounts. By shopping locally, you help keep essential services available—and ensure these stores can continue supporting Borrego Springs nonprofits like the BMA.


The voucher program was created by BMA founder Mike Himmerich, expanded by Shirley Vialpando, and is now overseen by Diana Fox, who distributes vouchers each Wednesday afternoon at the Community Resource Center.


This program is one example of how BMA and local businesses work together to care for the Borrego community—neighbors helping neighbors, year after year.



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