Morongo tribe donates $500,000

The Morongo Band of Mission Indians has donated $500,000 to 79 nonprofit organizations in the Inland Empire and throughout Southern California.

The grants were announced during the third annual Morongo Community Outreach Awards Luncheon held earlier this month, according to a statement released by the tribe.

That’s the largest amount of money ever given out through the program which gives each recipient up to $5,000. Nearly $900,000 has been donated since the program began.

“Our commitment to giving has always defined our tribe as we help address societal needs, foster a sense of community, and bring about positive change,” said Charles Martin, Morongo chairman, in the statement. “Our annual Community Outreach Awards program allows us to live our values by providing support to dozens of inspiring non-profit organizations.”

This year’s recipients include Carol’s Kitchen in the San Gorgonio Pass communities, Rainbolt RiteCare Childhood Language Center in San Bernardino, the Galilee Center in Mecca, Olive Crest in Palm Desert and Angel View in Cathedral City.