UNITED
FOOD BANK NEWS!
AMERICAN
IDOL GIVES TO UNITED FOOD BANK
MESA, ARIZONA – March 11, 2008 - United Food
Bank received a generous grant of $17,077.12 to combat child hunger
in the five counties it services: Maricopa, Pinal, Gila, Apache
and Navajo.
The grant was made possible by Charity Projects
Entertainment Fund (CPEF), which was established to raise awareness
of poverty across the United States and throughout the world.
CPEF teamed up with FOX and AMERICAN IDOL to present “IDOL
GIVES BACK,” which aired on FOX in April 2007. “IDOL
GIVES BACK” was a two-night special which raised awareness
and funds for organizations that focus on providing resources
for young people in extreme poverty in the U.S. and Africa.
“We are extremely grateful for this support
of our work feeding hungry children. More than 824,000 Arizonans
live in poverty and 20 percent of those Arizonans are children,”
said Bob Evans, President and CEO of United Food Bank. “Both
the awareness and financial support are desperately needed.”
United Food Bank received the grant as a result
of its membership in America’s Second Harvest – The
Nation’s Food Bank network. America’s Second Harvest
was chosen as one of four domestic charities that received funds
which were raised through “IDOL GIVES BACK.” America’s
Second Harvest is the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization,
providing food and grocery products to more than 25 million Americans
each year through a network of more than 200 food banks.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit
that provides hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring,
storing and distributing food and related commodities through
a network of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa
County, Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo
Counties. For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
HICKMAN
FAMILY FARMS DONATES EGGS TO UNITED FOOD BANK
MESA, ARIZONA – March 5, 2008 - Realizing
the importance of getting nutritious food to those in need statewide,
Hickman Family Farms is donating nearly 300,000 eggs to food banks
across the state. On March 6, 2008, United Food Bank will receive
their portion of that donation to distribute to agencies it serves
in Maricopa, Gila, Pinal, Apache and Navajo Counties.
“We applaud Hickman Family Farms for reaching
out to the hungry in all areas of Arizona,” commented Bob
Evans, President and CEO of United Food Bank. “High protein
foods such as eggs are always in demand by our agencies and we
are looking forward to sharing this generous donation throughout
our service area.”
Coordination of the delivery is being made through
the Association of Arizona Foods Banks and recipient food banks
include United Food Bank, Desert Mission Food Bank, St. Mary’s
Food Bank, Community Food Bank in Tucson, Yuma Community Food
Bank and Borderland Food Bank in Nogales.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit
that provides hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring,
storing and distributing food and related commodities through
a network of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa
County, Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo
Counties. For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
CELEBRITY
CHEFS TEACH; UNITED FOOD BANK RECEIVES FOOD
MESA,
ARIZONA – February 14, 2008 - On
Saturday, February 16, 2008, celebrity chefs will be sharing their
cooking tips with the public during the Food University™
2008 tour AND sharing food with United Food Bank to help feed
the hungry. The event will be held at the Scottsdale Hilton, 6333
North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Doors open at 9:00.
Food University™, recently created by Richard
Gore, the former President of Food Network Live! and producer
of over 200 high-profile celebrity chef events, brings together
the top chefs from around the country to participate in this exclusive
“food enlightenment” experience.
The Food University™ tour will visit 15 top
cities nationwide kicking off Feb 16th in Phoenix, AZ. The shows
will be hosted by Marc Silverstein, Food Network’s Best
Of series. Each unique tour stop will serve up a celebrity TV
chef as well as top renowned restaurant chefs from across the
country all providing a special opportunity for the average home
cook to take in educational seminars, learn the fine art of cuisine
via “hands-on” step-by-step workshops. Wine tastings
and culinary products will also be featured in a main exhibit
arena. The Phoenix show will guest star Caprial and John Pence
of the long-running PBS TV series, “Caprial and John’s
Kitchen: Cooking For Family And Friends”.
The Arizona Farm Bureau will showcase several local
farms and growers offering fresh quality samples of ingredients
and products at the upcoming Phoenix event at the Scottsdale Hilton
Resort. “Letting the attendees know why utilizing fresh
quality product enhances your cooking and eating experience is
part of what these events are all about,” says Gore. “Some
people may still use tomatoes out of a can and haven’t even
tried an heirloom tomato.”
Food from the event will be donated to United Food
Bank.
The inaugural event on Feb 16th will begin at 10AM
with doors opening at 9AM and conclude at 4PM. General admission
tickets are $55. The unique “hands-on” experience
workshops range from $99 - $150. National sponsors will feature
Australian wine brand Jacob’s Creek, who will host several
Wine 101 seminars and offer a food and wine pairing workshop as
well. Additionally, J.A. Henckels knife brand will sponsor Knife
Skill seminars and a “hands-on” Effective Cutting
Techniques” workshop.
For further information on the Food University™
tour and schedule, visit www.myfoodu.com or call 1-877-MYFOODU
(693-6638).
About Culinary Entertainment Group, Inc.
Culinary Entertainment Group, Inc. headquartered in Irvington,
NY, specializes in the production of original culinary entertainment
through live events, television programming, web content, publishing
and merchandising.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and distributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa County,
Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
“SCOUTING
FOR FOOD” FOR UNITED FOOD BANK
MESA, ARIZONA - January 30, 2008—The holidays
are over but the demand for food has not diminished at United
Food Bank. Thanks to the Boy Scouts, more food will be arriving
at United Food Bank this weekend. The Boy Scouts’ annual
Scouting for Food drive will take place this Saturday, February
2, 2008. Scouts will leave flyers in neighborhoods advising when
the food will be picked up. Residents may simply leave their food
in a bag outside their door and the Boy Scouts will pick it up.
Items most needed are peanut butter, tuna, chili, canned meats
and canned fruit.
Last year United Food Bank received 98,000 pounds
of food as a result of the Scouting for Food efforts. “The
need for food is constant and we are thankful that the Boy Scouts
take on this hefty project each year,” commented Bob Evans,
President & CEO of United Food Bank. “Their efforts
allow us to continue our work feeding the hungry.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit
that provides hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring,
storing and distributing food and related commodities through
a network of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa
County, Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo
Counties. For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
USDA
UNDER SECRETARY VISITS UNITED FOOD BANK’S KIDS CAFÉ
SITES
Who: USDA Under Secretary, Nancy Montanez Johner
USDA Power Panther Mascot
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Representatives &
Children
United Food Bank Representatives
DES Representatives
What: Visit by Under Secretary of two United Food
Bank Kids Café Sites (Lehi and Red Mountain) operated by
the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale
Where:Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale
3:00 p.m.
Lehi Branch,1231 East Oak, Mesa, Arizona 85203
4:00 p.m.
Red Mountain Branch, 11889 East Glenrosa Drive, Scottsdale, AZ
85256
When: Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Description:
The Under Secretary is traveling from Washington D.C. to Mesa
to tour two of United Food Bank’s Kids Café sites
operated by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale.
In addition to touring the facilities, the Under Secretary, along
with the USDA’s mascot, the Power Panther, will interact
with the children to share information on nutrition education
while the children enjoy their evening meal.
The purpose of the Under Secretary’s visit
is to see first-hand how the after school program works. Kids
Café is a collaborative effort between United Food Bank
and its social service agency partners to provide a nutritionally
balanced evening meal/snack to at-risk children in a safe environment.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and distributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa County,
Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
Since 1954, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale
has provided more than 100,000 Northeast Valley youth with a positive,
supervised environment to explore the power of their potential.
Today we serve 15,000 children and teens ages 6 to 18 through
the organization's nine branches and 12 outreach sites located
in Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian
Community, Hualapai Indian Community and other Northeast Valley
neighborhoods. The Club offers more than 100 after school and
summer programs emphasizing five core areas: the arts; character
and leadership development; education and career development;
health and life skills; and sports, fitness and recreation. For
more information visit www.bgcs.org.
UNITED
FOOD BANK NEEDS HELP RESCUING CITRUS
MESA, ARIZONA - January 17, 2008—It is citrus
season in Arizona and United Food Bank is in need of volunteers
to help pick fruit. Many generous homeowners who have citrus trees
would like to donate their fruit to United Food Bank, but are
unable to pick the fruit. Rather than see that nutritious food
go to waste, United Food Bank is recruiting volunteers to help
pick citrus. United Food Bank will provide the equipment and is
asking the public to provide the labor! This is a great group
project for service clubs, schools, and businesses. Individual
volunteers are also encouraged to call and United Food Bank will
team up volunteers. To help rescue the citrus, please call DeAnna
Yazzie at 480.926.4897 ext. 218 or email DeAnna at dyazzie@unitedfoodbank.org.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and distributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa County,
Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
WAL-MART
RESPONDS TO FOOD SHORTAGE WITH TRUCKLOAD FOR UNITED FOOD BANK
Retailer dispatches trucks filled with food to all
50 states in order to help feed those in need this holiday season
MESA, ARIZONA -- January 4, 2008 – In response to a nationwide
shortage of food and groceries in food banks, Wal-Mart today announced
United Food Bank in Mesa will receive a truck filled with food as
part of a nationwide donation providing more than 3 million meals
to those who need it most. In total, Wal-Mart is supporting the
dispatch of more than 50 trucks – one to every state –
to provide much-needed food to food banks across the nation. The
truckload containing over 35,000 pounds of food will arrive at United
Food Bank on Monday, January 7, 2008.
“We understand that many communities are facing hunger due
to food shortages at food banks this Christmas,” said Daniel
Morales, Wal-Mart’s Community Relations Director for Arizona.
For this reason, we are happy to help our partners at United Food
Bank feed those in need.”
Wal-Mart was alerted to the potential food bank shortage through
a call to action sent out by its philanthropic partner, America’s
Second Harvest – The Nation’s Food Bank Network. United
Food Bank is a part of the network, and will utilize Wal-Mart’s
contribution to provide more than 27,000 meals to local residents
in need.
“On a local level, the food we receive will help feed hungry
Arizonans in the five counties we serve: eastern Maricopa, Gila,
Pinal and southern Apache and Navajo,” stated Bob Evans, Chief
Executive Officer of United Food Bank. “We are very grateful
to have Wal-Mart’s continuing partnership in our mission and
work. We are proud to claim Wal-Mart as a corporate partner and
a ‘Neighbor Helping Neighbors.’”
The partnership between Wal-Mart and America’s Second Harvest
began in 2005, when the two organizations worked together to support
hurricane relief efforts. Since that time, the company and its customers
have contributed approximately $15 million, which has been distributed
to food banks across America to help feed individuals at risk of
hunger. In addition, Wal-Mart works exclusively with America’s
Second Harvest on its food reclamation program, which last year
provided 14 million pounds of dry grocery items valued at $21 million
to food banks and related organizations across the U.S.
About Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
Every day, millions of customers visit Wal-Mart Stores, Supercenters,
Neighborhood Markets, SAM’S CLUBs or a subsidiary location
in 15 countries around the world. In each of the countries where
Wal-Mart operates, the company and its Foundation are committed
to a philosophy of operating globally and giving back locally. Wal-Mart
(NYSE: WMT) is proud to support the causes that are important to
customers and associates right in their own neighborhoods, and last
year gave more than $270 million to these local communities. To
learn more, visit www.walmartfacts.com, www.walmart.com or www.walmartfoundation.org.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and distributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies. For more information visit
www.unitedfoodbank.org.
TWO
MEN AND A TRUCK DELIVER
MESA, ARIZONA – November 26, 2007--It’s the time of
year when people want to help. At United Food Bank, it means the
empty shelves will soon fill with food from generous folks holding
food drives. But with the increase in donations at this time year
comes the issue of finding a way to pick up all the food. Thanks
to Nick Roerig and his crew at Two Men And A Truck, food drives
are going much smoother this year. Nick saw the need and offered
the services of his drivers and his trucks to drop off food drive
food bins and pick up the food once the food drives are completed.
And he is doing it free of charge. “I hear in the media about
the need for food and I am happy to help bring that food in,”
commented Nick. ‘Giving Back’ is one of our core values,
and we are proud to help the United Food Bank do just that this
holiday season."
With only 19 employees, United Food Bank collects and distributes
over 12 million pounds of food each year. “This cannot be
done without the help of volunteers,” said Bob Evans, President
and CEO of United Food Bank. “We are committed to being good
stewards of the resources we receive from our donors and do our
best to keep expenses down. Volunteers such as Nick and the drivers
at Two Men And A Truck allow us to put our donors’ dollars
towards food instead of overhead. We are very thankful to them.”
For more information on how to help fight hunger, please contact
480.926.4897 ext. 212.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and distributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa County,
Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
Two Men And A Truck is an international franchise locally owned
and operated. Our commitment is to continuously strive to exceed
customer's expectations in value and high standard of satisfaction.
UNITED FOOD BANK HOLDING
TURKEY DROP OFF TO FEED HUNGRY
MESA, ARIZONA – November 13, 2007
Who: United Food Bank
What: Collection of turkeys to be distributed to the hungry during
holiday season.
When: Saturday, November 17, 2007 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. AND
Monday through Wednesday, November 19-21, 2007 from 8:00 a.m. to
8:00 p.m.
Where: United Food Bank, 358 E. Javelina Avenue, Mesa, Arizona
(Off Mesa Drive, South of the 60)
Description: Donors may drive up to the United Food Bank parking
lot and drop off turkeys! UFB staff will be on hand to accept the
turkeys and provide donors with a receipt. On Monday, November 19,
2007, Air Evac will be participating in the turkey drop by delivering
donated turkeys to United Food Bank via helicopter and ambulance.
The public are invited to drop off their donated turkeys and items
during that time.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and distributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa County,
Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
BENZAS
PRESENTED WITH PHILANTHROPY AWARD
MESA, ARIZONA – November 1, 2007 - John and Jill Benza were
honored Thursday evening, November 1, with a Spirit of Philanthropy
Award presented by the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Mr. and Mrs. Benza were nominated by United Food Bank for their
many years of volunteering to help the hungry in Arizona. Jill Benza
has been a member of the Board of Directors for five years, serving
two terms as Chair. Both Jill and John Benza have volunteered with
United Food Bank events as well as providing financial support.
“Jill and John are wonderful friends of United Food Bank.
They support us with their leadership talents as well as roll up
their sleeves to help wherever it is needed,” commented Bob
Evans, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Food Bank.
“They exemplify the true meaning of ‘Neighbors Helping
Neighbors.’”
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and disbributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa County,
Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
“HAUL ACROSS AMERICA”
TOUR ARRIVES IN MESA, AZ
Event part of national initiative to fight childhood
hunger
Mesa, AZ – October 29, 2007– On November 5th at 10:30
a.m. the national “Haul Across America” tour will arrive
at the United Food Bank, located at 358 East Javelina in Mesa. A
moving story about a life touched by hunger from the area will be
added to a growing collection from across the U.S.
The collection of stories began its journey October 17th in Portland,
Oregon and will make several stops on the way to the nation’s
capital. The United Food Bank in Mesa has been selected as a stopping
point. The stories are carried in the cab of an ABF truck and headed
for Washington D.C. Upon arrival on March 1st the stories will be
presented for recognition.
The goal of the “Haul Across America” is to increase
awareness about the realities of hunger in the U.S. The effort hopes
to bring the understanding that behind every hunger statistic there
is a story of an individual, a child or family that needed assistance.
These are also stories of how a food banks and communities affect
the lives of those in need. The largest growing segment currently
in need of emergency hunger assistance in the U.S. is the working
poor. This segment of the population does not qualify for government
assistance and turns to food banks for help.
The United Food Bank in Mesa is a member of America’s Second
Harvest-The Nation’s Food Bank Network - the largest charitable
hunger relief organization in the country. Donna Rodgers, Director
of Resource Development for United Food Bank says, “We are
very excited to be part of this effort. We want the public to know
that there are hungry people out there and they have a story. We
want to add a story from Mesa to the collective voice and let everyone
know the needs.”
The “Haul Across America” tour is a part of the U-Pack-A-BackPack
initiative – a national virtual food drive to fight childhood
hunger. This is a joint effort between The America’s Second
Harvest Network and ABF U-Pack Moving®. All donations to the
virtual food drive at will be tracked by zip code and remain in
the communities in which they are raised. Local contributions will
be utilized to support area food bank programs that help feed children
and their families.
The public is invited to attend the event. For more information
or to donate visit
www.U-PackaBackPack.org
Established in 1983, United Food Bank began operation in Mesa,
Arizona. Our mission is to provide access to nutritious food for
those who are without, serving as a community bridge between those
who want to help and those who are in need. United Food Bank defines
its work as "Neighbors Helping Neighbors." Our decision
making is always measured by our values which promote the alleviation
of hunger, the importance of nutrition, outcomes of self-sufficiency
and independence, while preserving at all times the self-esteem
and dignity of the individual.
For more information on the United Food Bank got to www.unitedfoodbank.org
Contact Donna Rodgers 480-926-4897
America’s Second Harvest – The Nation’s Food Bank
Network is the largest charitable domestic hunger-relief organization
in the country with more than 200 Member food banks and food-rescue
organizations serving all 50 states, the District of Columbia and
Puerto Rico. The Network supports approximately 50,000 local charitable
agencies operating more than 90,000 programs including food pantries,
soup kitchens, emergency shelters, after-school programs and Kids
Cafes. Last year they provided food assistance to more than 25 million
people in the United States. For more on the America’s Second
Harvest Network, please visit www.secondharvest.org. Contact: Mathew
Killion 312-641-6646
mkillion@secondharvest.org
ABF U-Pack Moving is an affordable, convenient residential moving
solution. In operation since 1923, ABF Freight System, Inc.®
is one of North America’s oldest and most reputable motor
carriers. The project U-Pack-A-Backpack began in October 2007 to
raise funds and increase awareness for childhood hunger. The program
was originally created to assist school backpack programs. All of
the funds raised go to the America’s Second Harvest network
of food banks. Funds benefit the communities in which they are raised.
For more information go to www.upack.com. Or U-PackABackPack.org
Contact: Amy Patton publicrelations@upack.com 379-785-8738.
UNITED FOOD BANK SHELVES
GO BARE AS
FEDERAL FOOD DONATIONS DWINDLE
Passage of Farm Bill Essential
for Emergency Feeding Organizations
Mesa, October 19, 2007—You can look through the racking at
United Food Bank and see clear through to the other side. The shelves
are bare. Food banks nationwide report that inventory is rapidly
dwindling as a result of a more than 70 percent decline in support
from a federal food aid program in recent years. United Food Bank
is experiencing feeling the draught. Strong agricultural markets
have led to drastic reductions in food purchased and distributed
by the Federal government. Meanwhile, more than 35 million Americans
are living on the brink of hunger, more than 2 million here in Arizona.
The 2007 Farm Bill must be passed quickly in order to provide essential
relief to emergency feeding organizations.
The House of Representatives passed its version of a Farm Bill
in July that would provide more than $4 billion in new investment
in federal nutrition programs and boost the currently scare supply
of commodities available through the nation’s charitable food
distribution system. Specifically, it would raise current levels
of mandatory support for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)
to $250 million annually and index the amount for inflation. Hopefully,
the Senate is close to finalizing its version of the Farm Bill.
“Our donors truly step up to the plate, but they cannot do
it alone,” said Bob Evans, CEO of United Food Bank. “Government
commodities are among the most nutritious and needed food products
that we distribute. We appreciate the hard work of many of our Congressional
leaders to pass a Farm Bill, and urge them to continue that work
to help the hungry in Arizona and across the country.”
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and distributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa County,
Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
SUNS GORILLA TO PRESENT
UNITED FOOD BANK WITH
NEW TRUCK TO BENEFIT KIDS L.I.F.E PROGRAM
Truck awarded as part of Phoenix Suns Charities $100,000 Playmaker
Grant
WHAT: The Suns Gorilla along with Phoenix Suns Charities’
executive director, Tom Ambrose will present an all new, purple
and orange bobtail truck complete with the Suns logo to the United
Food Bank tomorrow (Tuesday, September 25) at 3:30 PM at the Boys
& Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale (Lehi Branch).
The truck will be used to enhance the organization’s Kids
L.I.F.E. program as well as deliver food to agencies involved in
the Kids Café and Food for Thought programs, both of which
provide supplemental food and educational enrichment for low-income,
at-risk youth.
WHO: Tom Ambrose, Executive Director, Phoenix Suns
Bob Evans, CEO, United Food Bank
The Gorilla
Children from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale,
Lehi Branch
WHERE: Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale
Lehi Branch
1231 East Oak
Mesa, AZ 85203
(480) 850-4453
WHEN: Tuesday, September 25 at 3:30 PM
INFO: Phoenix Suns Charities awarded the annual $100,000 Playmaker
grant to United Food Bank to support its Kids L.I.F.E. program.
A portion of the grant was used to purchase a truck to transport
food, including fresh vegetables and fruits, to Kids Café
and Food for Thought sites serving more than 2,700 underprivileged
children daily.
The Kids L.I.F.E. program is a collaborative effort in partnership
with social service agencies of the East Valley to provide nutritionally
balanced food to at-risk children.
NINA MASON PULLIAM TRUST
HELPS FOOD BANK PURCHASE NEW VAN
MESA, ARIZONA - August 31, 2007--Known for its support of Helping
People in Need, the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust has awarded
a $30,000 grant to the United Food Bank to purchase a van.
“Although we are a nonprofit, we still have operating costs,
especially vehicle maintenance,” commented Bob Evans, CEO
of United Food Bank. “Our old van served us well, but it really
needed to be replaced. We are thankful to the Nina Mason Pulliam
Charitable Trust for helping us replace this vehicle so we can continue
our work.”
BOEING HELPS HUNGRY NEIGHBORS
MESA, ARIZONA - August 14, 2007--The Boeing Company in Mesa is
an excellent example of United Food Bank’s motto, “Neighbors
Helping Neighbors.” Boeing just issued a $10,000 grant to
United Food Bank to help purchase food for the hungry.
“This grant couldn’t have come at a better time,”
said Bob Evans, CEO of United Food Bank. Food supplies are low at
the East Valley’s food bank. Summer is a difficult time since
people are on vacation and tend not to think so much about the hungry
as they do during the holiday season. To make matters worse, higher
utility costs usually results in the food budget being cut to pay
those bills…and with school out, children are not receiving
the meals they would normally get during the school day.
“It’s a tough time and we appreciate the support of
our Boeing neighbors,” acknowledged Evans. “Not only
does Boeing support us financially, they hold food drives for us
and send us volunteers. They truly are our neighbors.”
To help stock the shelves of United Food Bank by providing food
or financial support, please call 480.926.4897 ext. 212.
UNITED FOOD BANK BOARD ANNOUNCES
NEW OFFICERS
MESA, ARIZONA - August 9, 2007--The United Food Bank Board of Directors
has announced its officers for 2007-2008. John Seli, CFO/Controller
for Federal Communications Group, Inc. was elected Chairman of the
Board. Community Volunteer, Richard Bambauer was elected Vice-Chairman,
Jo Martin, owner of J. Martin Business Consulting is secretary and
Jim LeCheminant, President of the Falcon Field Office of Mesa Bank
is Treasurer. The Board is also pleased to announce two new members:
Jan Wolfe, IT Manager with Intel Corporation, and Brian Yazzie,
Director of Native American Services for the Boys & Girls Club
of Greater Scottsdale.
DESPITE HIGH TEMPERATURES,
EAST VALLEY BRINGS CHRISTMAS TO
UNITED FOOD BANK
MESA, ARIZONA - July 10, 2007--While the temperatures were reaching
110+ degrees, the East Valley Chambers of Commerce and their members
were “celebrating” Christmas with United Food Bank.
Through their efforts, United Food Bank received more than 11,000
pounds of food and nearly $5,000 to help the hungry during the “warm”
summer months.
Apache Junction, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa and Tempe Chambers participated
in the first annual Christmas in July Chamber Challenge Food Drive,
sponsored by Crackers & Co. Café to support United Food
Bank. The Chambers rallied their members in a competition to collect
the most food during a time when food bank shelves are bare.
The competition, which lasted from June 4 through July 2, was won
by Ceragem, a member of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce. Ceragem
collected 1,366 pounds of food and over $700. “This was no
small feat for a business with only six employees,” commented
John Seli, Chairman of the Board of United Food Bank. “They
came up with some creative ideas to encourage donations. It means
a lot to us to see the community come together to help those in
need.”
The Chambers promoted the Christmas in July event through their
network of members. The event started with a kickoff party hosted
by Crackers & Co. Café on June 4 (Hunger Awareness Day
Eve) and culminated on July 9 with a Wrap-Up Celebration, again
hosted by Crackers & Co. Café. All Chambers and participants
were recognized at the Wrap-Up Celebration for their efforts, and
special recognition was given to Ceragem as the winning business
and Chandler Chamber as the winning chamber. Chandler Chamber members
collected a total of 4,582 pounds of food and $3781.05.
“To put it in perspective, the hard work of our East Valley
neighbors resulted in the equivalent of 385 people receiving three
meals a day, everyday, during the month of July,” said Donna
Rodgers, Director of Resource Development for United Food Bank.
“To someone who is hungry, this generosity does feel like
Christmas!”
PHOENIX SUNS CHARITIES ANNOUNCES
LARGEST
ANNUAL DONATION TO LOCAL CHARITIES
Grants totaling more than $700,000, United Food
Bank to receive $100,000 Playmaker Award
PHOENIX – Phoenix Suns Charities, the philanthropic arm of
the Phoenix Suns, has announced its grant recipients for 2007, awarding
$760,900 to 103 different charitable organizations throughout Arizona.
This marks an increase of more than $200,000 from last year and
the largest donation amount in one year since its formation in 1989.
Non-profit organizations applied for funding through the foundation’s
grant application process. This year, program grants ranged from
$1,000 to $100,000 with an average disbursement of $6,170.
“Phoenix Suns Charities is proud to support both well-known
and grass-roots organizations throughout Arizona that assist in
the needs of children. Due to the generosity of our fans and sponsors
we have continued to grow and expand our funding,” said Tom
Ambrose, executive director of Phoenix Suns Charities. “Making
these grants each year is the most rewarding part of the season.”
The total includes a $100,000 Playmaker Award grant, which is funded
by Phoenix Suns Charities 28 Playmaker sponsors and will go to the
United Food Bank. The grant will be used to enhance the organization’s
Kids L.I.F.E. program as well as purchase a vehicle which will deliver
food to agencies involved in the Kids Café and Food for Thought
programs, both of which provide supplemental food and educational
enrichment for low-income, at-risk youth.
“Nourishment and the ability to learn go hand in hand,”
said Bob Evans, CEO of United Food Bank. “We are honored to
receive the Playmaker grant and are excited to have Phoenix Suns
Charities as a partner in our Kids’ L.I.F.E. program. On behalf
of our staff, Board of Directors, and all the kids whose lives will
be improved, I thank them for this very generous gift and their
continued support of Arizona’s children.”
United Food Bank is a community-based, private nonprofit organization
that provides hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring,
storing and distributing food and related commodities through a
network of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa
County, Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
Phoenix Suns Charities utilizes the resources of the Suns to raise
funds which benefit non-profit organizations that assist the needs
of children. Since its inception in 1989, Phoenix Suns Charities
and the Phoenix Suns have donated more than $7 million to Arizona
organizations, helping children and families across our state.
Phoenix Suns Charities 2007 Grant Recipients:
A & A Cottages, Inc. Junior Achievement of Southern Arizona
ACCEL Liberty Wildlife
Advocates for the Disabled Lions Camp Tatiyee, Inc
Ahwatukee Children's Theatres (A.C.T.) Lions Vision Center, Inc.
Aid to Adoption of Special Kids Literacy Volunteers of Arizona
Alhambra Education Partnership Maggie's Place
Anytown Arizona, Inc Marine League Charities
ARCH Mission of Mercy
Arizona Academic Decathalon Moencopi Day School
Arizona Blind & Deaf Children's Foundation, Inc. Nana's Children
MHF, Inc
Arizona Coalition for Tomorrow Charitable Fund Neighborhood Ministries
Arizona for Children's Inc (Formerly Foster Angels of Arizona) New
Beginnings Community Development
Arizona Jewish Theatre Company New Song Center for Grieving Children
and Those Who Love Them
Arizona Project ChalleNGe Program Peer Solutions
Arizona Science Center Phoenix After School Sports, Inc.
Arthritis Foundation - Greater Southwest Chapter Phoenix Children's
Hospital Foundation
Assistance League of East Valley Phoenix Day
Assistance League of Phoenix Phoenix Rescue Mission
Assistance League of Tucson Phoenix Theatre
Association of Arizona Food Banks PREHAB of Arizona
Back to School Clothing Drive Associations Ronald McDonald House
Ballet Arizona Rosie's House: A Music Academy for Children
BHHS Legacy Foundation SaddleBrooke Community Outreach
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona San Miguel High School
Bothands, Inc Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
Boy Scouts of America - Grand Canyon Council Sojourner Center
Boys and Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale Special Olympics Arizona
Boys and Girls Club of Metropolitan Phoenix St. Mary's Food Bank
Alliance
Boys Hope Girls Hope of Arizona St. Paul's Preparatory Academy
Brewster Center Domestic Violence Services St. Vincent de Paul
Casa Ctr for Prev. of Abuse & Violence String Sounds
Child Crisis Center - East Valley, Inc. Sun Health Foundation
Children's Center for Neurodevelopmental Studies & Temple Grandin
School Suns Nite Hoops
Childsplay Teen Lifeline
Christian Family Care The Children's Advocacy Center
Civitan Foundation The Collaboration for a New Century
Coalition for Compassion and Justice The Melonhead Foundation
Communities in Schools of Arizona The Neighborhood Christian Clinic
Crisis Nursery The Partnership, Arizona Chapter
Deer Valley Education Foundation The Phoenix Zoo
Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation The Wellness Community
Florence Crittenton Time Out Inc
Free Arts of Arizona Town of Guadalupe - Youth Programs
Gabriel's Angels UMOM New Day Centers
Greater Phoenix Youth at Risk Foundation United Food Bank
Helping Hands Housing Services Valley Youth Theatre
Homebase Youth Services Volunteer Center for Maricopa County
Homeward Bound Waste Not, Inc
Hope and A Future Wesely Community Center
House of Refuge East West Valley Child Crisis Center, Inc.
Intermountain Centers For Human Development Youth Re:Action Corps
Junior Achievement of Arizona - Central District
FOOD BANK HOLDS CHRISTMAS PARTY IN
JUNE TO FEED THE HUNGRY
Who: United Food Bank
What: Free Party to Kickoff Christmas in July Food Drive
Competition in Recognition of Hunger Awareness Day
When: June 4, 2007, 5:30-7:30
Where: Crackers & Co. Cafe, 1325 North Greenfield Road,
Suite 101, Mesa, Arizona 85205
Description: While people tend to think of those less fortunate
during the holidays, the truth is hunger doesn't take a holiday!
People are hungry all year long, but the shelves at United Food
Bank are bare during the summer. To spark the holiday spirit in
the East Valley and help restock the shelves for the summer, United
Food Bank has invited the Apache Junction, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa,
Queen Creek and Tempe Chambers of Commerce to participate in a food
drive challenge--holiday style.
Through the generous support of Crackers & Co. Cafe, a free
kickoff party, complete with elaborate Christmas decorations, will
take place on the Eve of National Hunger Awareness Day. Attendees
will enjoy delectable treats and entertainment from the East Valley's
own Elton John, while learning about ways they can help feed the
hungry during the summer. The date was chosen to highlight National
Hunger Awareness Day, which is June 5 this year.
The holidays wouldn't be complete without gifts, so corporate donors
have stepped up to put together a generous prize package for the
business that collects the most food per employee. And in keeping
with the holiday spirit, Crackers will leave the Christmas decorations
up at their Greenfield restaurant for the duration of the food drive
which is 6/4/07 through 7/2/07.
The public is welcome to this free event, but RSVPs are required
at 480.926.4897, ext. 212. Food and monetary donations will also
be accepted at the event.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and distributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa County,
Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
HOMELAND SECURITY VISITS
UNITED FOOD BANK
MESA, ARIZONA - May 10, 2007--On Monday, May 14, representatives
from the Office of Faith-Based Initiatives of the Office of Homeland
Security in Washington, D.C. will be visiting United Food Bank in
Mesa.
Director Keith Rothfus, Deputy Director Greg DiNapoli and Leroy
Gilbert will be visiting with United Food Bank CEO, Bob Evans, to
discuss resources and food distribution. United Food Bank was chosen
for this visit because it is a recipient of Emergency Food &
Shelter Program (FEMA) funding.
"We are looking forward to this visit and discussing ways United
Food Bank is prepared to help those in need." stated Evans.
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and distributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa County,
Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
For more information visit www.unitedfoodbank.org.
MESA SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST
PRESENTED WITH PHILANTHROPY AWARD
MESA, ARIZONA - November 16, 2006--Barbara Reardon, a school psychologist
with Mesa Public Schools was honored Wednesday evening, November
15, with a Spirit of Philanthropy Award presented by the Association
of Fundraising Professionals. Ms. Reardon was nominated by United
Food Bank for her work helping the less fortunate in the East Valley.
Through her service on a United Way allocation committee, Ms. Reardon
became familiar with the mission of United Food Bank and has since
volunteered countless hours to help feed the hungry as well as supported
the Food Bank financially. She serves on United Food Bank’s
Board of Directors and is also very active in one of United Food
Bank’s agencies, Paz de Cristo.
“Barb has demonstrated the true meaning of philanthropy,
which is giving straight from the heart,” commented Bob Evans,
Chief Executive Officer of United Food Bank. “We are honored
to have her as a volunteer, a donor and a board member.”
WAL-MART STORES, INC. PARTNERS
WITH UNITED FOOD BANK TO FIGHT HUNGER
MESA, ARIZONA - September 26, 2006--Through a donation from Wal-Mart
Stores, Inc., United Food Bank, a member of America’s Second
Harvest - The Nation’s Food Bank Network, is receiving a truckload
of food-enough to provide more than 27,500 meals to the hungry.
The presentation will be Friday, Sept. 29, 2006 at 8:30 a.m. at
the United Food Bank, 358 East Javelina Avenue, Mesa.
This past March, Wal-Mart and SAM’S CLUB locations nationwide
partnered with the American’s Second Harvest Network to help
raise funds and build awareness about the solvable problem of hunger
in America through the “Be A Part Of The Solution To End Hunger”
campaign.
“Wal-Mart’s contribution will make a significant impact
in alleviating hunger throughout the America’s Second Harvest
Network by enabling our member agencies to provide more than 7.5
million meals to Americans nationwide,” said Vicki Escarra,
president and chief executive officer of the America’s Second
Harvest Network.
“On a local level, the food we receive will help feed hungry
Arizonans in the five counties we serve: eastern Maricopa, Gila,
Pinal and southern Apache and Navajo,” stated Bob Evans, Chief
Executive Officer of United Food Bank. “We are very grateful
to have Wal-Mart’s continuing partnership in our mission and
work. We are proud to claim Wal-Mart as a corporate partner and
a ‘Neighbor Helping Neighbors.’”
UNITED FOOD BANK CEO ELECTED
PRESIDENT OF BOARD
MESA, ARIZONA - September 6, 2006--Bob Evans, Chief Executive Officer
of United Food Bank in Mesa has been elected President of the Board
of Directors of the Association of Arizona Food Banks (AAFB). AAFB
is a support organization serving seven member food bank warehouses
and a network of more than 1,700 food pantries and agencies in Arizona.
AAFB coordinates collection, procurement, and distribution of food,
develops financial support, relationships and resources for its
members, advocates for food security through public policy, serves
as a source of information and expertise to increase awareness of
hunger issues and investigates new initiatives to preserve and expand
food resources.
“The Association has done a wonderful job of coordinating
efforts to feed the hungry across the state, especially in times
of emergency,” stated Evans. “I am looking forward to
working with our Board and with our membership to continue advocating
for the hungry.”
FOUR NAMED TO UNITED FOOD
BANK BOARD
MESA, ARIZONA - July 24, 2006--United Food Bank has named Mike
Gholson, Rick Bambauer, Stuart DeLong and Jim LeCheminant to its
Board of Directors.
Gholson, who retired from a 39 year career in the electronics industry,
has been an active supporter of the Food Bank for many years. Bambauer,
Production Systems Manager for Phoenix Newspapers, Inc., is a returning
Board member after completing his first term in 2004. DeLong is
Principal of DeLong Wholesale which deals in the foodservice and
commodity meats industry. He has extensive experience with food
banks both within and outside of Arizona. LeCheminant, President
of the Falcon Field office of Mesa Bank, is also active in Mesa
United Way and a strong supporter of the Food Bank.
"The talents of these individuals complement those of our
current board members and will benefit those served by our Food
Bank," commented Bob Evans, United Food Bank's Chief Executive
Officer. "We are very privileged that they accepted this commitment."
United Food Bank is a community-based private nonprofit that provides
hunger relief/food assistance by collecting, acquiring, storing
and disbributing food and related commodities through a network
of partner social services agencies in eastern Maricopa County,
Gila and Pinal Counties and southern Apache and Navajo Counties.
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