Desert Manna Ministries, Inc.

St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Barstow began handing out sandwiches at the church office door in 1979.  As the amount of people in need increased, St. Joseph's and a coalition of local churches, including the First Congregational United Church of Christ, came together to form Desert Manna Ministries, Inc.  Established in 1989 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Desert Manna opened its shelter the same year.  We have been at the same location since our inception but our services have increased as the needs of homeless and low-income people have changed.  We currently serve approximately 5% of Barstow's population each year.

Fred Broadhead, who was the first Executive Director, helped create Desert Manna.  Emma Gross, Executive Director for 7 years, expanded on the original vision and moved Desert Manna forward.  We honor the work and dedication of these visionaries. 

Our Services

• Emergency and short-term shelter for men, women, and children,
• Free lunch for the public on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays,
• Free dinner for the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays,
• Free bread, rolls, and pastries,
• Vouchers for gasoline,
• Greyhound vouchers,
• Computer room,
• Emergency food boxes,
• Federal food commodities distribution,
• Clothing,
• Showers,
• Assistance with Low Income Weatherization Applications,
• Utilities Assistance,
• Rental/Mortgage Payment Assistance, 
• Assistance with job searches and housing,
• Assistance in applying for Social Security or Veterans Benefits.