Variety Children's Charity of the Desert

Since 1987, Variety Children's Charity of the Desert has been dedicated to promoting the health, mobility, independence and social inclusion of children who are underserved, critically ill, or living with disabilities. Through best practices and professional stewardship, we operate four core programs, Care, Freedom, Future, and Outreach, which deliver vital services to children and their families throughout the Coachella Valley. 

• Care Program: Provides developmental and autism screenings both in-person and via telehealth, along with essential items such as diapers and wipes, and referrals.

• Freedom Program: Promotes mobility, independence, and social inclusion by providing both standard and adaptive bikes, as well as specialized strollers and wheelchairs for children of all abilities.

• Future Program: Enriches lives through education, art, and recreational experiences—such as adaptive sports—that help build social skills, foster connection, and reduce isolation.

• Outreach Program: Bridges service gaps by providing case management, resource referrals, and supportive services for children and families, including overwhelmed caregivers.

Testimonials

"Variety Children’s Charity of the Desert has helped our family in so many ways that I never could have imagined. They provide us with food bags every month, filled with the essential items we need to prepare our meals. As a big family, Variety has ensured we always have food on the table. I truly appreciate them for always being so thoughtful and caring." - Mary, Mother of five

"The staff were so kind and helpful, guiding me through screenings, finding the right resources for my child, and even helping with groceries when I needed it most. I’m so grateful for their support!" - Kim S.

“Seeing Elien, one of Variety’s clients, out in the community—safe, comfortable, and engaged in his adaptive stroller—was a powerful reminder of why our work matters. Supporting families like Elien’s is an honor, and it’s a privilege to witness the difference we can make together.”— Executive Director of Variety Children's Charity of the Desert, Heidi Maldoon