Rebuild Palm Springs effort kicks off Friday, May 23
Palm Springs, CA
Following the tragic act of violence and explosion at a Palm Springs fertility clinic, the community is grieving. Recovery will be difficult, but through shared compassion and support, there is hope to rebuild lives and restore what was lost.
A Community United: Rebuilding Palm Springs
A vital community fundraiser has been launched to support the recovery effort. It is being proudly led by several dedicated local small business owners, including:
- Bob Smiland, Desert Hand Car Wash
- Liz Ostoich,Farm, Tac/Quila, and Clandestino restaurants
- Willie Rhine, Eight 4 Nine Restaurant and Lounge
- Bill Sanderson, Townie Bagels
- Gregory Goodman,My Little Flower Shop
On Friday, May 23 from 7 AM to 7 PM donations will be accepted in a ‘Drive-thru Donation Drive’ in the parking lot of Denny’s restaurant, 1201 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs.
These donations will have a direct and profound impact on those experiencing hardship from damage that is not covered by insurance. The destruction has left many small business owners reeling—individuals whose livelihoods were destroyed in moments, now confronting overwhelming financial losses. Businesses across several blocks sustained significant window and structural damage, and many owners, whose daily income supports their families, are now facing steep repair costs with no financial safety net.
In a statement in support of these efforts, Mayor Ron deHarte said:
“This appalling attack on the American Reproductive Centers clinic on N. Indian Avenue has affected homes and businesses in a several-block area in the uptown area of Palm Springs. The City is working to provide resources and supplies to homeowners and businesses that were impacted by the blast. One way for our community to immediately rally behind those affected is to make a contribution to this fund. Every dollar you donate will be meticulously allocated to those most in need, directly impacting their ability to recover and rebuild.”
Your Contribution: A Direct Lifeline
Donations to the Rebuild Palm Springs Fund will go directly toward critical needs such as home and property repairs. These include essential fixes to windows, roofs, structural elements, and the replacement of damaged personal and business property not fully covered by insurance. More than financial aid, these contributions restore a sense of hope, dignity, and the right to safety and security for those impacted. This community-driven effort is a lifeline in Palm Springs’ darkest hour, allowing affected residents and business owners the chance to heal and rebuild. Visit https://bit.ly/RebuildPS to contribute.
Fund Administration: Transparency and Trust
All funds will be administered by the Desert Business Association, a trusted nonprofit established in 1979 (EIN# 33-0120933), with Greater Palm Springs Pride serving as the fiscal sponsor (EIN# 33-0745940). To ensure fairness and accountability, disbursement guidelines will follow a model similar to the City of Palm Springs Facade Improvement Program (though this is not a city-run initiative).
Funds may be provided as matching grants, covering up to 50% of the cost of repairs to help property owners or tenants make essential restorations. The total funds available will be determined by the amount raised through the generosity of the community.
To qualify for reimbursement, applicants must submit:
- Copies of paid invoices
- Before and after photos (digital preferred)
- Credit card receipts with statements identifying the work performed
- Copies of canceled checks (front/back)
- Other evidence as required by the program administrator
This program is specifically tailored to support City of Palm Springs businesses that suffered damage due to the tragic May 17 bombing at the fertility clinic.
Aftermath of Fertility Clinic Bombing