Hunger 101 AZ

USDA Unveils Historic Improvements to Meals Served in America’s Schools

2012-01-26T08:49:00.000-08:00

First Lady Michelle Obama and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today unveiled new standards for school meals that will result in healthier meals for kids across the nation. The new meal requirements will raise standards for the first time in more than fifteen years and improve the health and nutrition of nearly 32 million kids that participate in school meal programs every school day.

Full Story: http://www.fns.usda.gov/cga/PressReleases/2012/0023.htm

HORN OF PLENTY now available online

2012-01-26T08:44:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance’s HORN OF PLENTY now available online

We thank you for your interest in the fight against hunger in Arizona. By receiving your edition of the magazine via email, you are not only saving environmental resources, you are saving Food Bank resources that can be directed back to client services. With 1 in 5 Arizonans, 1 in 7 seven seniors and 1 in 4 children suffering from food insecurity, every dollar we can save on printing and mailing costs allows us to distribute seven more meals into the community.

We extend this “Thank You” to your home and hope you enjoy the articles spotlighting those helping their neighbors in need.

The online magazine can be raeched at: http://smfba.convio.net/site/DocServer/HOPWinter2012_online.pdf?docID=141&autologin=true

EMPOWERING HABITS, EMPOWERING LIVES…

2012-01-26T07:50:00.000-08:00

Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Nutrition and Physical Activity presents…
UNLEASHING YOUR INNER SUPERHERO FOR HEALTH!
(Free Train the Trainer Workshop for Childcare Providers)
Come spend the day with the ADHS Super Hero Squad as we “Hero Up” to energize the classroom with nutrition and physical activities that build a healthier tomorrow.
Saturday, February 25th 2012, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm (4.5 Training Hours), Bonus Session 3:00 – 5:00*( 1.5 Training Hours)
Desert Willow Conference Center, 4340 East Cotton Center Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85040
To Register or for more information: ttps://www.surveymonkey.com/s/EmpoweringHabits_EmpoweringLives
Sessions will focus on the EMPOWER Standards related to Nutrition and Physical Activity! By the end of the day, Superhero’s for Health will have: The ability to transform the Empower Standards into fun, interactive classes; A better understanding of the powers they possess; and The tools they need to unleash inner Super Heroes for Health in their centers and community.
Questions or Comments? Anne Whitmire at anne.whitmire@azdhs.gov or 602-364-1621

Betty Fairfax Kiddie Kollege Kids Makes a Difference

2012-01-16T13:02:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to share a BIG THANKS with some Little donors.
Pre-schoolers at the Betty Fairfax School’s Kiddie Kollege in Laveen invited St. Mary’s Hunger 101 Program Manager Chet Provorse to chat with them about the issues of hunger and good nutrition. And the kids had a surprise for Provorse as well, gathering enough non-perishable food during an in-house drive to provide 275 meals for the one in four children across Arizona who may not have food to eat tonight.

Their desire to help and share is another reason to believe Arizona’s future will be good hands, with kids who are learning that they can make a big difference.

Sun City Grand Softball Club Donates More than 20,000 Meals

2012-01-12T10:56:00.000-08:00

Sun City Grand Softball Club Donates More than 20,000 Meals to Surprise Families

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thanks the players, spouses, volunteers and fans of the Sun City Grand Softball Team for helping hungry families in Surprise during it annual holiday benefit tournament at Field of Dreams ballpark in Sun City.

The four-day event included eight teams conprised of Sun City Grand Softball club members, and included a silent auction of items donated by local businesses as well as a concession stand with coffee, doughnuts, hot dogs and soft drinks for sale. Female members of the club served as coaches and not only collected player fees, they enforced “fines” made in fun and with the purposes of raising donations for both St. Mary’s and the Relay for Life event. Volunteers also donated their time to umpire, keep score, announce and groundskeep during the tournament.
The $3,000 donated to St. Mary’s will allow the Food Bank to distribute more than 20,000 meals to those in need in Sun City, Surprise and the westside. On behalf of your neighbors in need, thank you to the Sun City Grand Softball Club for including the Food Bank in this wonderful event.

An American tradition turns 100 this year

2012-01-10T12:53:00.000-08:00

Girl Scouts, leaders, parents … Come Visit the Food Bank on Saturday, January 28

An American tradition turns 100 this year – and is about to begin again.

The annual Girl Scouts cookie sale is about to entice the world with Thin Mints, Tagalongs, Samoas, Do-Si-Dos, Trefoils, Dulce de Leche, Thank U Berry Munch, and the newest flavor, Savannah Smiles. And through the Gift of Caring program, the scouts make sure that those in need also share in the great flavors of the season.
St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance is bringing back a tradition of its own this year, inviting all Valley scouts, brownies, leaders and parents to visit our Del E. Webb Distribution Center (2831 N. 31st Avenue on Saturday, Jan. 28 from 8 a.m. to noon. Come join one of five different tours of the food bank, receive information on hunger in Arizona and tips on good nutrition from St. Mary’s Hunger 101 program and gain a better understanding of who benefits from this important Gift of Caring program.
Good luck on your cookie drive this year … and we hope to see you all on Jan.

St. Mary’s Food Bank Needs Your Citrus Donations this Winter!!!!

2012-01-03T13:58:00.000-08:00

Today is the official kickoff of gleaning season here at St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance. We need your excess grapefruits and oranges and lemons from your backyard trees to help feed the hungry of Arizona.

We would appreciate you gleaning the trees yourself and delivering the citrus to our food bank locations in Phoenix (2831 N. 31st Avenue) or Surprise (13050 W. Elm Street). But we also have a special citrus hotline (602) 343-5658 where homeowners can call and schedule a date for volunteers to come glean your trees (volunteers will pick grapefruit and oranges trees only) and there is a tax-deductable $15 charge per tree to cover the cost of materials and transportation to the Food Bank. Volunteers will glean from January until early March, so made your reservations now.

St. Mary’s also needs your helping hands! The Food Bank does not have enough volunteers to meet the expected number of homes and areas requesting to be gleaned. If you have a few hours, a day or a weekend when yourself or your church, organization or club would like to help St. Mary’s fill their bins this winter, call the same citrus hotline number above and leave all the pertinent information.
St. Mary’s not only distributes the gleaned citrus to Arizona’s hungry, but shares the bounty with food banks in others states – in the form or frozen juice. In return, states share their surplus fruits and vegetables with St. Mary’s to help provide a variety of nutritious items for all.

Councilman Daniel Valenzuela leads Food Drive to benefit St. Mary’s

2011-12-23T13:46:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank Phoenix City Councilman Daniel Valenzuela (District 5) for conducting a holiday food drive to benefit the hungry of Phoenix.

Valenzuela and his fellow community organizers canvassed neighborhoods in his district on Saturday, Dec. 17 and those efforts resulted in a donation of 1,612 pounds of food that can be used immediately in St. Mary’s emergency food Box programs.

Thank you Councilman Valenzuela for your efforts on behalf of the hungry in your community!

Cleveland Indians Pitcher Vinnie Pestano Helps Hungry at Knight Center

2011-12-23T13:05:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank Vinnie Pestano and Ryan Lantz of the Cleveland Indians for donating their time to help the hungry of Arizona this week at our Knight Services Center.

Pestano, who made his major league debut in September and is now a resident of Goodyear, spent more than three hours carrying emergency food boxes, signing autographs and posed for pictures, with volunteers, donors and staff. Vinnie said he had a great time and he’ll be back – hopefully with a few teammates to help out.

Thank you very much for your time Ryan and good luck next season Vinnie. Go Tribe

Best Western International Donates nearly 4,000 meals During Food and Fund Drive

2011-12-23T11:13:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank the Employees Activity Committee of Best Western International for their efforts in a recent food and funds drive to benefit Arizona’s hungry.
The drive, which began in November and ran through mid-December, engaged employees by promoting drawings to win AMC Movie Gift Cards and 2-night free stays at any Best Western hotel. Employees were also allowed to redeem their Best Western Reward points towards gift cards to donate towards the food drive.

In the end, the drive raised 1,206 pounds of food and when combined with funds will allow St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance to distribute 3,971 meals to those in need this holiday season. Corinna Friday, Employee Activities Committee Chair for Best Western International Beardsley Operations Center and Jerry Hutchison, Senior Facilities Representative presented Jerry Brown of St. Mary’s with the drive proceeds.
Thank you Best Western!

The Holiday Spirit!

2011-12-22T05:55:00.001-08:00

2011-12-22T05:54:00.000-08:00

2011-12-21T14:46:00.001-08:00

Fry’s Donates More Than 500,000 Meals With Special Holiday Gift To St. Mary’s

2011-12-20T08:59:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance had some very special visitors on Monday – Fry’s Food Stores President Jon Flora and more than two dozen volunteers from Fry’s who helped pack emergency food boxes and carry them out to the cars for hundreds of families at our Knight Client Service Center.

Those volunteers also joined Mr. Flora in a special presentation to St. Mary’s President and CEO Terry Shannon – a donation of $50,000 and an additional $25,000 worth of much-needed food items for the 1.4 million Arizonans and one in four children who are requesting assistance this holiday season. All told, that’s enough to allow St. Mary’s to distribute more than a half million meals to Arizona’s hungry.
It was just the latest in a consistent, strong show of support from Fry’s – which has now donated enough food and funds for more than 900,000 meals this year – not to mention two million-plus pounds of product donated daily through the Food Rescue Program.
Fry’s volunteers also handed out gift cards to 20 families receiving assistance on Monday, just make the holidays a little brighter. It was incredible to have so many Santa-capped, smiling faces add a special energy to the Food Bank.

Special thanks to Mr. Flora, public relations leaders Joellen Lynn and Pam Giannonatti and Zone 1 Operations Supervisor and St. Mary’s Board of Directors member Nicki Schillhahn-Amos for all their assistance – not just today, but every day – to the World’s First Food Bank.

Local Vintage Chevy Club Collects More Than 10,000 Meals For Arizona’s Hungry

2011-12-15T14:43:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank the Vintage Chevrolet Club of America’s Central Arizona Chapter for their donation of $1,500 and 76 pounds of food to Arizona’s hungry on Dec. 15. Each year, the club hold two swap meets of car parts and other item at Glendale Community College, with some of the proceeds benefitting St. Mary’s.

Over the past two years, the club has donated enough food and funds to help the food bank distribute more than 17,500 meals to the one in four Arizona children who don’t know when or where their next meal will come. And we always look forward to the club members bringing their cars down to the food bank to show off their great restorations.
A big thank you to Diane Adams Club Editor, Sandy Bruyn Club Secretary, Ed Behie Club Director and Linda Behie, and Don Adams Board Members as well as all the club members for this great donation. We hope to see you all again next year. Until then: Keep on rollin!
Photos: Left to Right: Jerry Brown, Linda Behie, Don Adams, Ed Behie, Sandy Bruyn, Diane Adams

2011-12-14T12:35:00.000-08:00

Volunteer ... TRY IT ...You'll like it.
Volunteering Details at: http://www.firstfoodbank.org/volunteer.html

2011-12-14T08:33:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Claus for a CAUSE

beCAUSE Hunger doesn't go on a Holiday.

Listen to the Lady at: http://youtu.be/G_1VqBgIkuw

“Cadena de Gente Buena” - Univision Channel 33 Encourages Support for St. Mary’s

2011-12-14T07:52:00.000-08:00

Univision Channel 33 Encourages Viewers to Support St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance by Paying it Forward.
From Dec. 5-10, St. Mary’s was the subject of a Cadena de Gente Buena (Chain of Good People / Pay it Forward) campaign sponsored by Univision 33 Phoenix.

The campaign included a series of stories on the World’s First Food Bank’s history, its role in the community and client success stories as well as public service announcements that encouraged viewers to support St. Mary’s. Univision also sponsored a five-hour phone bank offering opportunities for viewers to learn more about St. Mary’s services or support the Food Bank by donating time, food and money.
Goodwill stores of Arizona participated as a drop-off site for non-perishable food donations during Cadena de Gente Buena.
As part of the campaign, Univision TV and radio talent also stepped away the anchor desk and microphones to roll up their sleeves, spending the morning of Dec. 9 at the St. Mary’s Knight Services Center, and the morning of Dec. 10 distributing food at Abundant Life Center -- a St. Mary’s partner agency.]

To view the rest of the stories visit http://univisionarizona.univision.com Keyword: Cadena de Gente Buena

Thank you Univision 33 for your continued support through what will hope will become an annual event.

THANK YOU AAM HOA Management Company

2011-12-13T14:55:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank Tempe-base AAM HOA Management Company for the record-setting virtual food drive on behalf of the world’s first food bank.

Amanda Shaw (President), Ercell Sherman (Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer) and Susan Williams (Vice President of Business Development and Marketing) presented St. Mary’s Chief Communications Officer Sarah Stuckey... with a check for $28,270 at a morning press conference – which included a special $5,000 donation from the AAM company.
More than $23,000 was raised through a company virtual food drive, with employees making online donations to purchase individual items for the food bank. AAM set a goal of $6,000 for the drive, but the generosity of those taking part resulted in nearly four time that amount ultimately raised.
For each dollar donated, St. Mary’s Food Bank can distribute enough food to provide seven meals in the community. That means the total donation from AAM will result in almost 200,000 meals for the hungry of Arizona – a truly special gift, especially at this time of year.

On behalf of the thousands who will benefit from this outpouring of generosity, St. Mary’s thanks AAM and everyone who took part in this event.

Pictured in check presentation photo: Amanda Shaw, AAM President; Sarah Stuckey, St. Mary’s Chief Communications Officer; Ercell Sherman, AAM Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer; Susan Williams, Vice President of Business Development and Marketing; Christina Calio, St. Mary’s Food Bank Development Officer.

Food Bank web site: http://www.firstfoodbank.org/

2011 Arizona Civic Health Index

2011-12-12T12:42:00.000-08:00

The Index is the leading gauge of how Americans participate in civic life, how they connect to one another and to their communities. Find out more about the civic health of Arizona and how our state compares to the nation.

FREE Download report at:

http://www.thearizonawewant.org/reports/chi2011.php

ARIZONA - 3rd in U.S.

2011-12-12T12:25:00.000-08:00

for people in their 50s at risk of hunger
Arizona ranks third nationally for 50- to 59-year-olds at risk of hunger, with roughly 12 percent of people in this age group experiencing what is known as food insecurity, according to a report released in August by AARP.
Full story at: http://www.yumasun.com/news/food-73925-people-50s.html

2011 National Student Food Drive Awards

2011-12-12T11:05:00.000-08:00

The 2011 National Student Food Drive was capped with an awards presentation on Saturday Dec. 10 at the Minnesota Wild/Phoenix Coyotes game at Jobing.com Arena.
The five-time champions from Mountain Ridge High School, runners-up from Sandra Day O’Connor High School and third-place team from Tempe Compadre High School were honored during the first intermission, and the Mountain Lions were awarded the John Van Hengel Memorial Cup by St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance president and CEO Terry Shannon and KEZ 99.9 FM reporter and Food Bank friend Marty Manning.

Congratulations to all the high schools who combined to collect over 145,000 meals for Arizona’s hungry and we hope even more schools will take part in 2012.

2011-12-08T14:30:00.000-08:00

Currently, 1 in 4 children, 1 in 5 Arizonans, and 1 in 7 seniors in Arizona live with the threat of hunger.

YOU can help solve this problem.

Learn how at: www.firstfoodbank.org

2011-12-07T10:42:00.000-08:00

Just a thought,
actually FOOD for thought...

actually food needed for thoughts

.

2011-12-06T08:04:00.000-08:00

Hunger Hurts! You can help stop the Hurt

To learn more about how you can help, visit: http://www.firstfoodbank.org

Grand Tennis Club Raises More Than 42,000 Meals for the Hungry

2011-12-06T07:56:00.000-08:00

of Surprise During 2011 Shine in the Sun Senior Tennis Tournament

Shine in the Sun Senior Tennis Tournament Co-Chairs Cheryl Bush and Vivian McCurdy joined members of Grand Tennis Club and representatives of US Bank to present a check for $6,022 to Elizabeth Wilkinson of St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance at the Food Bank’s Surprise facility.
The tournament was held Nov. 9-13 and attracted 175 participants this year. The tournament was an all-volunteer event and with the help of US Bank, $6,022 and more than 300 pounds of food was raised for the hungry of the West Valley. St. Mary’s can turn every donated dollar into enough food to distribute to seven people, so this year’s tournament raised more than 42,400 meals for the one in four children dealing with hunger issues in our state.

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance thanks Cheryl, Vivian, Ellen Bedwell, everyone at the Grand Tennis Club and US Bank for a great tournament and a great donation that is very much needed and appreciated.

With a LOTTA HELP from our Friends

2011-12-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance Distributes Holiday Food to More Than 100,000 Neighbors For Thanksgiving

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank the thousands of people from around the Valley, the state of Arizona and the world for their generous donations of food, time and funds, which allowed the world’s first food bank to embark on its largest. (We say “the world” because we received a $500 donation from the United States Embassy in Bagdad, Iraq with a direction to purchase turkeys to help reach our goal!)

Because of you – because you took the time to help your neighbors and make this holiday even more special for others – St. Mary’s Food Bank can report the following totals from the week-long holiday food box distribution:

* Statewide, more than 16,000 holiday food boxes, each containing a turkey and approximately 10 pounds of produce in addition to the normal non-perishable emergency food box. That total includes the 7,000 turkeys and holiday food boxes and the 70,000 pounds of produce distributed on Nov. 22 at the Arizona State Fairgrounds – the single-largest distribution day in the 44-year history of the Food Bank.

* Statewide, an estimated 112,000 people were recipients of the holiday food distribution. This total is more than double the record 50,000 people estimated to be served during Thanksgiving week of 2010 – which at the time was a new record for the Food Bank. These numbers show how the need for emergency food continues to rise. This is a number St. Mary’s could not fathom reaching without the incredible public, and civic support of Arizonans who deem one in four children going hungry in our state to be unacceptable.

St. Mary’s anticipates the need for the December holiday season to also eclipse last year’s numbers. For families that will have little to nothing under the tree this year, the ability to gather at the table for a meal becomes even more important. Make your holiday season even more special by sharing your bounty with others.

Visit www.firstfoodbank.org or call (602) 242-FOOD (3663) to donate food, time and funds can help make this season better for those who need a helping hand.

Checlk out this day-in-the-life of 100,000 people dealign with HUNGER:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEHT5FIDZkE&feature=youtu.be

Arizona Celebration of Lights Continues –

2011-11-30T09:55:00.000-08:00

Save on Admission -Donate to St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance

Arizona’s Largest Christmas Light Show is off and running until Jan.1, and you can save off the admission price for your car with a canned food donation to St. Mary’s. Our thanks to Madison for taking pictures of our banner and some of the great displays she saw during opening night so people could see how cool this event can be!

Now in its 14th year, Arizona Celebration of Lights, has become a well-loved favorite family holiday destination in the Phoenix area. This year, visitors to the Phoenix Event Complex (99th Avenue and Thomas Road) will experience a light show that is bigger than ever, featuring more than 7 million lights, along with a Christmas Village full of fun.

You can save $2 off the regular cost ($15 per vehicle Monday-Thursday, and $20 per vehicle Friday-Sunday) with a donation of three cans or more to St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance (limit one discount per vehicle). With tunnels, arches and whimsical displays created from millions of twinkling LED lights, the show will delight children as well as the young at heart.

Arizona Celebration of Lights will be open now through Jan 1, including Christmas Day. Hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday, 6-9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 5:30-10 p.m.

For more information on Arizona Celebration of Lights, visit www.ArizonaCelebrationofLights.com.

Line Grows Long for Free Meals at U.S. Schools

2011-11-30T04:48:00.000-08:00

Millions of American schoolchildren are receiving free or low-cost meals for the first time as their parents, many once solidly middle class, have lost jobs or homes during the economic crisis, qualifying their families for the decades-old safety-net program.

The number of students receiving subsidized lunches rose to 21 million last school year from 18 million in 2006-7, a 17 percent increase.
More information about St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance school feeding program at: http://www.firstfoodbank.org/kidscafe.html

WESTGATE CITY CENTER, DeVRY UNIVERSITY VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL GROUPS TEAM FOR 2ND ANNUAL BOWLS FOR HUNGRY EVENT

2011-11-23T09:11:00.000-08:00

Join Westgate City Center, DeVry University, and six high schools from the west Valley for the second annual Bowls for the Hungry event to benefit the Kids Cafe program at St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance.

About 150 business and marketing students from high schools representing Raymond S. Kellis, Copper Canyon, La Joya Community, Desert Heights Preparatory Academy, Tolleson and Willow Canyon are creating and painting handmade ceramic bowls that will be sold at a silent auction on Dec. 15th at the Westgate City Center prior to the Edmonton Oilers-Phoenix Coyotes hockey game. Howler, the Coyotes mascot, will be on-site to shake paws and sign autographs.

Many Westgate businesses and retailers will also be auctioning off bowls with prize packages (Howler’s bowl with Coyotes Tickets, Yard House with $50 gift certificate, Shout House with Happy Hour party, etc.)
In addition to the auction, the public is invited to participate in a simultaneous food drive, where ten cans of food will earn a bowl painted by an area high school student. The food drive is also open to the public from Nov. 28 through Dec. 14 at all Valley DeVry University/Keller Graduate School of Management locations including the Phoenix campus (2149 W. Dunlap Avenue), Glendale Center (6751 N. Sunset Blvd., Suite E104), Mesa Center 1201 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 5450) and northeast Phoenix (18500 N. Allied Way, Suite 150).

All proceeds will benefit the St. Mary’s Kids Cafe program, which provide an after-school meal for more than 3,000 at risk children each day.

HAPPY VALLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AGAIN COMES THROUGH FOR ARIZONA’S HUNGRY!

2011-11-23T09:04:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank employees in Surprise was VERY happy to see the bus from Happy Valley Elementary School pull up in its parking lot on Tuesday morning. Every year, the students from Happy Valley conduct a huge food drive and then bring what they have collected to the food bank – forming a huge human chain to fill bin after bin with canned food items.

This year, the second graders (Mrs. Johnson) and sixth graders (Ms. Campaigne) delivered more than 3,200 pounds of food to help feed the hungry of Arizona this holiday season. This is the second straight year they school has topped the 3,200-pound mark, and the Patriots appeared to have a lot of fun making the donation.

Thank you Happy Valley Elementary School, for making Thanksgiving better for so many. And have a Happy Thanksgiving yourselves!

ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL CHURCH & DAY SCHOOL COLLECTS MORE THAN 24,000 MEALS DURING ANNUAL HOLIDAY FOOD & FUNDS DRIVE

2011-11-21T12:41:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance always looks forward to our annual call from All Saints Episcopal Church and Day School. And from this year’s photo, you can certainly tell why!

All Saints holds a St. Mary’s food drive to benefit the hungry of Arizona each year, and once again their congregation, parents and students put forth a great effort. The final total was more than 20,500 pounds of food – including many 50-pound bags of rice that our 500 partner agencies around the Valley and state will certainly put to good use. With more than $500 in cash donations included, this drive will allow the food bank to distribute more than 24,000 meals into the community.

This is a huge undertaking but a labor of love for the members of the church, who have donated more than 43,000 pounds in just the last two years alone.

Especially this year, with donations lagging and with so many people – including one in four of Arizona’s children – in need, this overwhelming donation is sincerely appreciated. Thank you All Saint Episcopal Church and Day School for your generosity, compassion and concern for those in your community who need help right now.

SERVPRO DONATES 2,100 POUNDS OF THANKSGIVING TURKEYS AND SIDES TO KICK OFF SUPER SATURDAY FESTIVITIES

2011-11-21T11:00:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank Jeff Ottaway and his crew at Servpro for their great kickoff donation of meals consisting of turkeys, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, rolls and deserts that will feed hundreds of Arizona’s hungry during this holiday season.

Servpro managers from around the Valley were on hand on Nov. 17 to form a human chain to unload the more than 2,000 pounds of food and present it to the Food Bank. A great time was had by all and Mr. Ottaway tells us he’ll be back next year with even more.

On behalf of the hungry of Arizona, a big thank you to Servpro for their great donation and commitment to their community.

Pei Wei Holiday Food Drive!!!

2011-11-21T07:47:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to John Demetra 2011 Spirit of Philanthropy Award Winner

2011-11-21T07:44:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance Board Member and uber-volunteer John Demetra was honored by St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance with a Spirit of Philanthropy Award at the Nov. 16th AFP Awards Dinner at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel. St. Mary’s honored John for his exceptional volunteerism: 3 days a week at the Agency Shopping area, extensive involvement with the Kids Cafe Golf Tournament and the Kids Cafe Program. Accompanying John to the Dinner is his lovely wife Alice.

Terry Shannon, President & CEO of St. Mary’s Food Bank presented a Spirit of Philanthropy Award to Board Member John Demetra for outstanding volunteer efforts on behalf of St. Mary’s. The award was presented at the annual AFP Philanthropy Leadership Awards Dinner on November 16, 2011. Pictured above are honored volunteers and dinner guest (left to right) Jim Heidkamp, John Demetra, volunteer Bruce Miller and CEO Terry Shannon.

2011-11-18T11:42:00.000-08:00

Here's an idea for the holidays: create & send greeting cards as your personal note cards that include nutrition, recipes & food ideas!

It's the ASU vs UA Rivalry Football Game, but Kind Food Donations Please!

2011-11-16T14:08:00.000-08:00

ASU4FOOD COLLECTS FOOD, CASH DONATIONS AT ASU-UA FOOTBALL GAME ON NOVEMBER 19th 2011 AS PART OF 2011 TERRITORIAL CUP FOOD FIGHT

Every Dollar Collected from Fans Will Provide Seven Meals This Holiday

Season; ASU4FOOD Looking to Beat Total Collected By Arizona Students
Phoenix, AZ – In a unique partnership with the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, State Farm Insurance is sponsoring the third annual Territorial Cup Series Food Fight. The purpose of the Food Fight for on-campus student organizations at ASU and UA to collect as much food and cash donations as possible – in a friendly “Food Fight” – to help the hungry in their communities.

This year, the annual UA-ASU “Duel in the Desert is set for Saturday, November 19, at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, AZ with the Territorial Cup and state bragging rights on the line for the Wildcats and Sun Devils.

This year more than ever, local Arizona food banks need more contributions to help meet the increased demand from people needing assistance. State Farm is challenging all fans attending the game – no matter your rooting interest – to bring non-perishable food item and/or cash to donate. There will be numerous food drop locations surrounding Sun Devil and Arizona Stadium. Look for “Collection Point” signs and bins and people wearing State Farm T-Shirts to assist you.
Recipients of the donations in the Valley will be St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance, The Salvation Army and United Food Bank.
"The aim of our partnership is to not only spotlight athletic programs offered by each university, but also to help alleviate hunger in the community and address the educational funding challenges each university is currently experiencing," said State Farm Vice President-Agency Suzanne Shambrook. "State Farm is proud to be a part of such a storied past of two nationally renowned universities.”

GET YOUR TURKEYS READY, SUPER SATURDAY THIS SATURDAY!

2011-11-16T14:01:00.000-08:00

ST. MARY’S FOOD BANK ALLIANCE EXPANDS 5th ANNUAL ‘SUPER SATURDAY’ TURKEY DRIVE TO 16 LOCATIONS ACROSS THE STATE FOR 2011Help Food Bank Reach Goal of 6,000 Donated Turkeys for Holiday Boxes;

Enter For a Chance To Win One of 16 $250 US Airways Flight Vouchers
Phoenix – It’s almost Turkey Time – and that means it’s “Super Saturday” time as well.
St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance will hold its fifth annual “Super Saturday” Turkey Drive on Saturday, Nov. 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For the first time, the drive will expand to 16 locations around the Valley and in Flagstaff in hopes of meeting what is anticipated to be an unprecedented need for the 2011 Holiday season.

The Food Bank is anticipating requests for a record number of holiday food boxes. But hopes remain that each will contain turkey and other assorted holiday dinner items – to allow families around the Valley and state the chance to enjoy the comforting tradition of a holiday meal. Last year, through the generous donations of businesses and private citizens wanting to help, St. Mary’s estimates their pre-Thanksgiving food distribution provided meals for as many as 50,000 people.

In addition to turkeys, all other non-perishable food items as well as monetary donations will be gladly accepted. And at each of the 16 locations, all donors are invited to register for a chance to win a $250 US Airways travel voucher.

Look for the giant inflatable turkey and smiling volunteers ready for your visit at the following “Super Saturday” locations around the Valley and in Flagstaff:

• St. Mary’s Food Bank Stardust Campus (2831 N. 31st Avenue)

• St. Mary’s Westside Facility (13050 W. Elm Street in Surprise)

• Albertsons Desert Ridge (21001 N. Tatum Blvd.)

• Albertsons Glendale (20255 N. 59th Ave.)

• Albertsons Peoria (8240 W. Deer Valley Road)

• Albertsons Surprise (16750 W. Bell Road)

• Albertsons Scottsdale (2785 N. Scottsdale Road)

• Albertsons Via Linda (11475 E. Via Linda)

• Albertsons Flagstaff (1416 E. Route 66)

• Harkins Christown 14 (1620 W. Montebello)

• Harkins Scottsdale 101 14 (7000 E. Mayo Blvd.)

• Harkins Arrowhead Fountains 18 (16046 N. Arrowhead Fountains Center)

• Harkins Gateway Pavilions 18 (10250 W. McDowell Road)

• Harkins Tempe Marketplace 16 (2000 E. Rio Salado Drive)

• Harkins Scottsdale Shea 14 (7354 E. Shea Blvd.)

• Harkins Flagstaff 11 (1959 Woodlands Village Blvd.)

ABOUT THE FOOD BANK: St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance, the world’s first food bank, is a non-sectarian, nonprofit organization that alleviates hunger by efficiently gathering and distributing food to 500 partner agencies at 700 locations that serve the hungry. Serving two-thirds of Arizona’s 15 counties, the organization is a member of Feeding America, the national network of food banks, and is committed to volunteerism, building community relationships, and improving the quality of life for Arizonans in need. Last year, the Food Bank distributed more than 74.2 million pounds of food to families and individuals, provided enough food for 275,000 meals every day, and garnered more than 370,000 volunteer service hours. Web site: www.FirstFoodBank.org

Roger Clyne & P.H Naffah Puts on a Concert to Help St. Mary Feed the Hungry!

2011-11-16T08:09:00.000-08:00

ROGER CLYNE & P.H. NAFFAH MAKE SPECIAL LUNCHTIME APPEARANCE AT ST. MARY’S FOOD BANK ON NOVEMBER 23; CLYNE ASKS FANS TO BRING DONATIONS OF TURKEY, CASH & FOOD FOR HOLIDAYS

Phoenix, AZ – For the second consecutive year, Arizona’s own musical treasure Roger Clyne is teaming up with St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance to raise awareness – and food – for families struggling with hunger this holiday season.

This year, Roger is really upping the ante. He will make a special lunchtime appearance at St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance’s Del E. Webb Distribution Center (2831 N. 31st Avenue) on the day before Thanksgiving to give his fans who help the Food Bank a special treat of their own. From noon to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 23, Roger and drummer P.H. Naffah will not only play their own selections but take requests from fans who make special donations to the food bank.

St. Mary’s is asking that fans bring turkeys, canned food or cash equal to a $10 donation to the show to help the one in five adults and one in four children in Arizona that need help to put food on the table this holiday season St. Mary’s personnel will be stationed at the entrances to the food bank to collect the donations prior to entry to the Food Bank parking lot.

Later that day, Roger will head to the East Valley and collect canned food, turkeys and cash donation from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Top Liquors in Tempe (403 W. University Drive). Clyne will be signing bottles of his ultra-premium Mexican Moonshine Tequila for those who make a donation to St. Mary’s for the holiday season.

“The food bank would like to thank Roger Clyne for giving of his time to help the hungry of Arizona and we invite his fans to come to St. Mary’s Food Bank and take advantage of this great opportunity,” St. Mary’s president and CEO Terry Shannon. “Roger is known not only for his incredible music but his big heart when he comes to helping the community. We are honored he has selected our Food Bank as a partner and are looking forward to a great day.”

So come on out and talk Turkey – and stuffing, and canned vegetables – with Roger Clyne and help Arizona’s hungry while helping yourself to a great chance to check out some great music.

Drink Wine for Hunger!

2011-11-16T08:02:00.000-08:00

Valley of the Sun 2030 Wine Soiree This Friday at the Mint in Scottsdale All Proceeds Benefit St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance

The Valley of the Sun 20/30 Club will hold their annual Holiday Wine Soiree this Friday, Nov. 18, at the Mint in Old Town Scottsdale (http://www.themintaz.com/) from 7-9 p.m. The $25 admission ($30 at the door) includes two drink tickets and light hors d'oeuvres.

Click here to purchase tickets via PayPal and be sure to include your name and "Wine Soiree" in the comments section. https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=K3BC8NT8ZUCYQ

In addition, we will also have raffle items available - tickets may be purchased at a cost of $5 a piece or five for $20. Raffle tickets may also be purchased through PayPal in case someone is unable to attend, but be sure to notate that in the PayPal comments section as well. All proceeds will benefit St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance and help the one in five Arizonans – and one in four children – struggling with hunger.

Fill a Boot? Fill a Box? It’s Fill-A Fire Truck For St. Mary’s Food Bank!

2011-11-11T14:27:00.000-08:00

Help Rural Metro Fire Department make Saturday SUPER in Litchfield Park.

Date: November 19th, 2011

Time: 12:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M.

Location: Bashas Supermarket at 5115 N. Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, Arizona

The Rural-Metro Firemen ask that you help fill their truck with donations of non-perishable food items for St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance. Help your local Rural/Metro Fire Department tackle the challenge of easing hunger in the West Valley for those who are less fortunate or having financial hardships during these difficult economic times. Cash donations are also accepted – for each dollar raised, the Food Bank can distribute the equivalent of SEVEN meals into the community.

Requested food items include peanut butter, tuna, canned fruit and vegetables, rice, pasta and cereal. Please help your firefighters fight hunger on Nov. 19. We’ll see you there!

RENT-A-CENTER’S ‘SOUP-TO-NUTS’ CAMPAIGN DONATES $20,000 TO ST. MARY’S FOOD BANK

2011-11-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank Rent-A-Center for its continued support in the fight against hunger not only in Arizona, but across the country. On Nov. 9, Regional Coach Israel Beltran and his team of district managers presented St. Mary’s President and CEO Terry Shannon with a check for $20,000 – which will allow the Food Bank to distribute enough food for 140,000 meals.

St. Mary’s is one of 11 food banks across the nation selected to share in the $250,000 Rent-a-Center is donating to fight hunger in America this year. The donation is in addition to the recent hunger-relief initiative staged across Rent-A-Center’s 3000-plus stores. Dubbed “Soup to Nuts,” this campaign took place in September in support of Hunger Action Month. It saw Rent-A-Center stores serve as collection points for cans of soup, jars of peanut butter and other canned goods. The donated food products were delivered to hunger-relief partners such as senior centers, homeless shelters, daycare centers and churches.

“This is the second consecutive year that Rent-A-Center has made this generous donation, which will allow Food Banks to distribute enough food to provide more than 1.7 million meals to the hungry across the country,” St. Shannon said. “St. Mary’s is proud of its partnership with Rent-A-Center and overwhelmed by this very generous and overwhelming donation.”

Seasonal Elucidation #53:

2011-11-11T08:02:00.000-08:00

What do you get when you cross a turkey with a centipede?

A drumstick for everybody

2011-11-10T10:16:00.000-08:00

Which Thanksgiving beverage is sad?

Apple Sigh-der.

http://www.hunger101az.org/

BOWL OVER HUNGER AT CH ROBINSON BOWL-A THON ON NOV. 12 @ AMF DESERT HILLS

2011-11-07T15:36:00.001-08:00

CH Robinson Worldwide is taking its shot at bowling over hunger this Saturday, Dec. 12 when they take over the AMF Lanes at 32nd Street and Bell for a Bowl-A-Thon to benefit St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance.
Every dollar that is raised through bowling fees, pledges, raffle sales and a portion of concession sales will be matched by CH Robinson, so this is a great chance to enjoy a day of fun while feeding thousands of people in our community.
The event will take place from noon – 3 p.m. Entry fees are $15 with a donation of three cans to the food bank or $20 without food, with a portion of the fee going directly to St. Mary’s. All bowlers are encouraged to help the food bank by raising pledges from family, friends and co-workers – with prizes awarded to whoever collects the most pledges AND whoever bowls the highest score on their pledge drive game!
For more information, please call Team Hunger Strike (Dusty Waldron) at (480) 483-4999 or via email at dusty.waldron@chrobinson.com.

GET A FREE OTIS SPUNKMEYER COOKIE FROM SPICY PICKLE W/A 3-CAN DONATION TO ST. MARY’S

2011-11-07T14:21:00.000-08:00

Spicy Pickle Sandwich Company will support the St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance as it kicks off its 2011 holiday “food-raiser,” called “Cans for Cookies.” Customer will receive one free, freshly-baked Otis Spunkmeyer cookie for every three cans of food they bring in to donate at any participating Spicy Pickle location (while supplies last). Spicy Pickle’s goal is to collect more than 5,000 cans during the two-month campaign and throughout its network of stores.

The Spicy Pickle Sandwich Company in Chandler is. For additional information visit http://www.spicypickle.com. Also, please note that, in an effort to best help those in need, donated cans should be standard sized (14.5 oz or larger) and may only be traded in for cookies while supplies last at any individual participating location.

The Spicy Pickle Sandwich Company in Chandler -- located at the SW corner of Highway 101 and Ray Road (480-786-4483) and is open from 11am - 9pm Monday through Saturday; and 11am – 6 pm on Sundays – will sponsor “Cans for Cookies” during the months of November and December. During this time, Spicy Pickle’s customers are encouraged to drop off their food donations to the store and enjoy a delicious free cookie with their meal. Spicy Pickle hopes that local businesses will help support this community effort by encouraging employees to participate.

Save $2 on Admission to the AZ Celebration of Lights w/a 3-Can Donation to St. Mary’s Food Bank

2011-11-07T12:32:00.000-08:00

Now in its 14th years, Arizona Celebration of Lights, has become a well-loved favorite family holiday destination in the Phoenix area. This year, visitors to the Phoenix Event Complex (99th Avenue and Thomas Road) will experience a light show that is bigger than ever, featuring more than 7 million lights, along with a Christmas Village full of fun.
The fun starts on Saturday, Nov. 19 and you can save $2 off the regular cost ($15 per vehicle Monday-Thursday, and $20 per vehicle Friday-Sunday) with a donation of three cans or more to St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance (limit one discount per vehicle)..
With tunnels, arches and whimsical displays created from millions of twinkling LED lights, the show will delight children as well as the young at heart. The festive atmosphere is sure to create memories every family will cherish and draw visitors from near and far.
After touring through the sparkling wonderland of lights, the wonder continues in Santa’s Village where visitors can park their cars and explore the holiday scene. Let your family warm up with delicious hot chocolate and enjoy other concessions as well. The computerized Christmas light show that will be projected in the village is sure to captivate every visitor. Capture memories from your family’s holiday adventure with photo opportunities with Santa Claus himself.
Arizona Celebration of Lights will be open Nov. 19-Jan 1, including Christmas Day. Hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday, 6-9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 5:30-10 p.m. The Christmas Village will be open Thursday through Sunday until Christmas.

For more information on Arizona Celebration of Lights, visit www.ArizonaCelebrationofLights.com.

ST. MARY’S FOOD BANK ASSISTS HEROES TO HOMETOWNS WITH HOLIDAY TURKEY & FOOD DISTRIBUTIONS TO AZ SOLDIERS

2011-11-07T12:24:00.000-08:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank the Heroes to Hometowns organization for the opportunity to take part in the Turkey to Troops food distribution again this year. About 800 families were served at the National Guard Armory in Phoenix and about 2,200 families received holiday food boxes – with a turkey voucher provided by University of Phoenix – around the state on Sunday, Nov. 6.

The reactions on the faces of the soldiers – and in some cases, spouses who are making ends meet while their husbands and wives protect freedom overseas – told the story better than any words could. St. Mary’s is proud and honored to take part in assisting this program and wish all of our fighting men and women and their families a joyous holiday season.
For anyone interested in donating to this worthwhile cause and becoming a sponsor of Turkeys for Troops next year, please contact Kathy Pearce at kathypearce1@cox.net or (480) 330-1632.

Aloha Yogurt, Mojo Yogurt and Smashburger Partner with ASU4Food for Holiday Fundraiser

2011-11-04T13:17:00.000-07:00

ASU4Food is partnering with Aloha Yogurt, Mojo Yogurt and Smashburger again this holiday season for a fundraising drive to benefit St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance. Here is a look at how each store is approaching their drive:

*From now through Dec. 15, Mojo Yogurt is asking customers who visit any of their four stores located in Phoenix and Tempe to donate the cost of one extra ounce of frozen yogurt – an additional 39 cents – to help the one in five Arizonans and the one in four children who struggle with food insecurity. Last year, Mojo Yogurt collected over $900 during their drive, allowing St. Mary’s to distribute enough food for more than 6,000 meals in the community.

*During the same time period, Aloha Yogurt will be asking customers at their Tempe location to take part in the same offer, with a 40-cent donation, the price of an additional ounce of yogurt, going to support the work of the world’s first food bank.

*Smashburger continues their holiday tradition of helping St. Mary’s at all three of their Tempe locations. Customers who donate $1 to the fight against hunger – which allows the distribution of enough food for seven meals – can sign their autograph on a giant hamburger poster that will be hung in each store and will stay up during the length of the drive. The Food Bank has the buying power to stretch that dollar as far as possible, about 14 cents per meal, to help as many hungry people as possible.

So over the next six weeks enjoy a great meal at Smashburger or a wonderful desert at Aloha or Mojo Yogurt and share the love with a donation to make sure everyone has enough food this holiday season.

Watch HUNGER Disappear at ASU's Homecoming

2011-11-02T12:05:00.000-07:00

Check it out at: http://www.territorialcupseries.com/allaccess/?media=277215

ARIZONA OFFENSIVE LINEMAN, REX HADNOT, SAGICOR KICKS OFF CARDINALS FOOD DRIVE WITH 1ST DONATIONS

2011-11-02T10:36:00.000-07:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance welcome Arizona Cardinals offensive lineman Rex Hadnot, mascot Big Red and representatives from Sagicor Insurance to the Del E. Webb Distribution Center on Tuesday to kickoff the annual Sagicor/Cardinals Food Drive for St. Mary’s.

Hadnot made the first food donation of the drive while Sagicor Chief Operating Officer Bart Catmull presented St. Mary’s President and CEO Terry Shannon with an initial $1,500 donation. Last year’s Cardinals drive collected enough cash and food donations to distribute 75,000 meals to the hungry of Arizona, and the initial donation of 10,500 meals by Sagicor gets the 2011 drive off to a great start.

Thanks to Channel 3 and Channel 5 for their coverage of the event and now we need YOUR help. Please bring non-perishable food and/or cash donations to the Nov.6 Cardinals/Rams game at University of Phoenix Stadium. St. Mary’s employees and volunteers will be stationed at every entrance to make the donation process as simple as possible. Let’s get the holiday season off to a great start with a great food drive followed by a Cardinals victory!

Twisted Manga Team and Cosplayers for a Cause

2011-11-01T11:31:00.000-07:00

On Friday October 21st the Twisted Manga Team and Cosplayers for a Cause joined the fight against hunger in Arizona by volunteering at St. Mary's Food Bank.
Take a peek of what they accomplsihed: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_54oxy4DE0

Jaguars CAN Dance & gather food at the same time

2011-11-01T11:13:00.000-07:00

The Desert Ridge High School Jaguars CAN Dance and have a good time gathering food for Arizonans in need.
The Jaguars were great hosts and full of energy as they push on with their 2011 food drive.

Take a look a their CAN Do & CAN Dance attitude… :http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx1fwonMlNM&feature=youtu.be

THANKS TO ASU4FOOD & ALL SUNDEVIL DONORS FOR MAKING HUNGER DISAPPEAR AT HOMECOMING!

2011-10-31T15:10:00.000-07:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank the ASU4FOOD on-campus group and all the Sun Devil fans who helped to “Make Hunger Disappear” at the annual ASU Homecoming parade and carnival this past Saturday. Thousands of cans of soup were purchased by Sun Devil rooters from the six-foot tall letters that spelled out HUNGER … and it was great to see the word literally disappear as the day went along!

Our thanks to everyone involved in the day, the United Food Bank, Salvation Army and State Farm Insurance, who sponsors the annual Territorial Cup Food Fight between ASU and the University of Arizona. And to cap off the day, the Sun Devils routed Colorado in the annual Homecoming Game to move to 6-2 on the season.

Thousands of cans of soup donated. Thousands of dollars raises. Thousands of people fed. What a great to spend a Saturday. Our thanks to all!

Arizona Surprise Police G.A.I.N Night

2011-10-28T11:55:00.000-07:00

In partnership with local businesses, the Surprise Police Department will host the event 5 to 9 p.m. Nov. 12 near the Surprise Aquatic Center, 15480 N. Bullard Ave. It’s a time when police and residents learn how they can work together to prevent crime and keep their community safe.

During the event, activities will include demonstrations from the police department’s special assignment and K-9 units, as well as safety information for all ages, children’s fingerprinting kits, inflatable children’s rides, free raffles, face painting and food vendors.

Music will be provided by personnel from the Surprise Block Party Trailer Program. The Surprise Fire Department will showcase its fire prevention trailer. Neighborhood Watch volunteers will sign up participants.

Those looking to assist the less fortunate during the holiday season can donate non-perishable food items and new unwrapped toys, which will benefit the St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance and Surprise Police Toy Drive.

Go "Make Hunger Disappear" During ASU Homecoming!

2011-10-28T11:53:00.000-07:00

Stacked Cans Will Spell Out “HUNGER” 6-Foot Tall on University Drive;

All Donations from Event to Benefit St. Mary’s and United Food Banks

Using nearly 5,000 cans of soup to spread its message, volunteers from ASU4Food, St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance and other food banks will construct the word “HUNGER” in six-foot tall, 30-foot wide letters near College Avenue and University Drive on the morning of Saturday, Oct. 29 as part of the annual Homecoming Block Party celebration.

ASU4Food and Food Bank and Salvation Army volunteers will be selling each soup can for one dollar – or $20 for a “sleeve” of 24 soup cans. With every can of soup that is taken from the display, the word, “HUNGER” becomes smaller and harder to read. The goal is to sell all 4,800 cans of soup over the course of the day and literally make “HUNGER” disappear.

The event is one in a series held during the school year by ASU4FOOD, an on-campus club formed with the purpose of fighting hunger in the community. ASU4Food is facing off with their rivals from the University of Arizona in the third annual ASU vs. UA Food Fight. Sponsored by State Farm through the Territorial Cup Series, the Food Fight a competition to see who can raise the most donations, both monetary and food, for their local food banks, through events held during the school year.

NSFD Question #3 WINNER!

2011-10-26T13:48:00.000-07:00

Way to Go Jennifer!!!!

Question #3: As noted in the 2011 NSFD Food Drive Resource Packet … How many of Arizona’s children live in poverty and what percentage are below the age of 5?

Answer (per the Food Drive Resource Packet): 338,000 Arizona children live in poverty with 37% below the age of 5?

Jennifer Dong will receive two (2) theater passes to a Harkins Theater and a Toni Can-Can stuffed toy turkey.

Question #4 coming by Friday.

3rd ANNUAL ZOMBIE WALK OCT. 29 THROUGH DOWNTOWN PHX!

2011-10-26T09:12:00.000-07:00

UNDEAD UNITE! HELP FEED ARIZONA’S HUNGRY

Walk Entry Fee is 3-Can Food Donation to St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance;

Music, Food, Costume Contests Capped By Zombie Walk through Streets

Phoenix, AZ – Legions of undead will converge in Downtown Phoenix for Zombie Walk 3 as part of a full cauldron of Halloween fun Saturday, October 29. The Downtown Phoenix Partnership and X103.9 present an afternoon and evening gathering with something for the entire family - from tiny ghouls on up to freakish adult Zombies.

And they'll be able to get so much more at the gathering at Heritage Square & Science Park. More than 2,000 walking dead showed up for the main event last year - the Zombie Walk. This year, for a donation of three canned goods to St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance, all sorts can take part in the frightening stroll of the undead throughout Downtown scaring any and all who dare to unknowingly enjoy a peaceful urban night out. What they'll find is that the real entertainment will be street side when families, decked out in scary or other Halloween fare, show their true and often bloody colors. For additional donations of canned goods, wanna-be Zombies can have their make-up done on site.

At a Glance

Who: Downtown Phoenix Partnership

What: Zombie Walk 3 and Halloween Fun - Nightmare on Adams, Halloween festivities

When: Saturday, October 29, 2011

Where: Heritage Square and Science Park, Downtown Phoenix. Walk meanders through the Downtown core.

Cost: Canned food donation for St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance

Calendar of Events

2pm - 3:30 pm: Purple Kush (music)

4 pm - 5:30 pm: The Recovery Junkies (music)

5:30 pm: Zombie Walk line up

6 pm: Zombie Walk 3 begins (takes about one hour)

8 pm - 9:30 pm: The Relics (music)

10 pm: Celebrity Judge "Gadger" from X103.9 emcees the Zombie Costume Contest

Organically sound riddle:

2011-10-25T06:20:00.000-07:00

When is a pumpkin not a pumpkin?

When it's dropped and becomes Squash!

Food Bank Info: firstfoodbank.org

ARIZONA STATE FAIR “WE CARE WEDNESDAY” FOOD DRIVE NETS MORE THAN 32,000 POUNDS

2011-10-21T12:31:00.000-07:00

St. Mary’s would like to thank the thousands of Arizonans who took advantage of the Arizona State Fair’s “We Care Wednesday” special event on Oct. 14 benefitting the food bank. St. Mary’s would also like to sincerely thank the State Fair for generously offering free admission to everyone who brought three or more nonpe...rishable food items to the fair.

The final totals? More than 16 tons – that’s 32,000 pounds of food, folks – was collected in just over six hours. That’s more than 5,000 pounds an hour! And fairgoers brought lots of canned meals, fruits, vegetables and soups – just the kind of food St. Mary’s desperately needs to fill the more than 40,000 emergency food boxes expected to be distributed just in the month of October.

Come Help Families With TruWest Credit Union!

2011-10-21T09:54:00.000-07:00

TruWest® Credit Union is partnering with St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance® to help Arizona families by collecting much needed diapers and hygiene products.

You can help by visiting any of the following branch locations to drop off your donations:

When: Saturday, October 22, 2011 at 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Where: 6550 E. Superstition Springs Blvd. (Superstition Springs Blvd. & Power Rd.)

1982 W. Main St. (Main St. & Dobson Rd.)

Commonly needed items:

Diapers (infant or adult, all sizes)

Baby Wipes, Bottles, Pacifiers, Bath Wash

Shampoo, Lotion, Toothpaste

Hand Sanitizer, Household Paper Supplies

Any Non-Perishable Food Items

TRY YOUR LUCK & HELP FEED THE HUNGRY AT CONNECTIONS CASINO NIGHT!

2011-10-19T08:58:00.000-07:00

Enjoy a great night of fun and a great way to learn more about networking groups from around the Valley as Marriott Courtyard and Residence Inn hosts the third annual Casino Night and mini-trade show benefitting St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance and Back on My Feet.

Sponsored by the Deer Valley Connections, North Valley Connections and Central Connections Networking Groups, the event is set for Thursday, Nov. 3 at the Marriott Courtyard Happy Valley (2029 W. Whispering Wind Drive, south of Happy Valley Road on 19th Avenue). Along with complimentary appetizers and a 50-50 raffle, a $20 donation will earn $500 in casino chips for you to try your luck at more than a dozen casino gaming tables including blackjack, poker, roulette and craps.

The networking groups and Marriott have worked hard to fight hunger in Arizona. In the first two years, this event has combined to raise more than 58,000 meals those in need and struggling with hunger in our community. For more information on tickets or to donate, contact Heather Visca at the Courtyard/Happy Valley at (623) 580-8844 or Carl Ulbrich at (602) 674-5675.

If not you, WHO?

2011-10-18T06:56:00.000-07:00

1 in 5 American kids face hunger everyday.
No child should go to bed hungry

You can help do something about this by making a call or asking a question, contacting a local family services center, checking with your local school or touching base with a food bank to learn more of the many ways YOU CAN HELP! If not you, WHO?

www.hunger101az.org

VALLEY HARLEY OWNERS GROUPS® RAISE RECORD 84,000 MEALS DURING THIRD ANNUAL BIKER’S CHALLENGE FOOD DRIVE

2011-10-17T17:02:00.000-07:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to that the more than 100 Valley of the Sun Harley Owners Group® members who took part in the Sunday Oct. 16 ride and BBQ to celebrate the completion of the third annual Biker’s Challenge Food Drive.

The H.O.G.® Chapters really out did themselves this year, more than doubling their meal donation for the second consecutive year. After contributing 15,000 meals in 2009 and 35,000 meals in 2010, this great community group went all out in 2011 and donated more than 7,000 food items and more than $10,000 in cash to feed Arizona’s hungry. That’s more than 84,000 meals this year alone, bringing the three-year total of this drive above 130,000 meals.

Congratulations go out to Pete and the H.O.G. Chapter 2376 out of Buddy Stubbs Anthem location, who were the overall winners this year and went home with the coveted Biker’s Challenge trophy for this year. That puts the gang from Anthem in charge of the 2012 Challenge, and we are already hearing plans to set a new record. Did some

one say 100,000 meals?

To all the competing chapters – the 2010 champs from Superstition H.O.G. Chapter 1743 in Apache Junction, the 2009 champs from Buddy Stubbs H.O.G. Chapter 93 in Phoenix and all those who took part, thank you on behalf of the thousands of people who will benefit from your selfless act of generosity. See you next year!

FORD MOTOR COMPANY, CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF PHOENIX & ST. MARY'S FOOD DRIVE TEAM UP!

2011-10-17T16:38:00.000-07:00

Receive A FREE Ticket to the Children’s Museum by Dropping Off 3 Nonperishable Food Items at a Valley Ford Dealership Between Oct. 22-31

PHOENIX – Ford Motor Company and the Children’s Museum of Phoenix have teamed up with St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance on the 10-day Ford Operation Goodwill Phoenix food drive taking place from Sat., Oct. 22 to Mon., Oct. 31 at Valley Ford dealerships.

Phoenix-area Ford dealerships will collect donations of nonperishable food that will provide nourishment to those in need in our state. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix will assist in the drive by providing one free general admission ticket to the Children’s Museum to each person who donates three nonperishable food items at any local Ford dealership. The tickets will be redeemable at the Museum during the month of December 2011.

As part of Ford’s Operation Goodwill Phoenix campaign, Ford Motor Company is sponsoring “Ford Technology & Innovation Month” at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix during the month of December 2011. In addition to the interactive exhibits, activities and programs will be themed around technology and innovation, and will reflect the enterprising spirit of Henry Ford.

“Our partnership with the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and St. Mary’s supports Ford’s global effort to address hunger relief in communities around the world,” said Mark Witthar, Phoenix regional manager for Ford Motor Company. “To date, Ford-related food drives have collected millions of pounds of food and we’ve supported those drives with refrigerated truck donations to food banks across the country.”

Last year, local Ford dealers were able to collect more than 5,000 pounds of food for United Food Bank in Mesa. The nonprofit also received a refrigerated F-550 truck from Ford Motor Company in 2009.

Those interested in donating nonperishable food in support of the Ford Operation Goodwill Phoenix food drive may drop off items at any of the following 11 Valley Ford dealerships:

• Camelback Ford Lincoln Mercury, 1330 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014

(888) 264-1851

• Chapman Ford, 7100 E. McDowell Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85257

(480) 946-3900

• Don Sanderson Ford, 6400 North 51st Ave., Glendale, AZ 85301

(623) 842-8600

• Berge Ford, 460 E. Auto Center Drive, Mesa, AZ 85204

(480) 497-1111

• Earnhardt Ford, 7300 W. Orchid Lane, Chandler, AZ 85285

(602) 893-0000

• Bell Ford, 2401 West Bell Road, Phoenix, AZ 85023

(602) 866-1776

• Power Ford of North Scottsdale, 8555 E. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85260

(480) 991-3333

• Peoria Ford, 9130 West Bell Road, Peoria, AZ 85382

(623) 977-8888

• Robert Horne Ford, 3400 S. Tomahawk Road, Apache Junction, AZ 85219

(480) 474-2500

• Rodeo Ford, 13680 W. Test Drive, Goodyear, AZ 85338

(877) 746-1110

• San Tan Ford, 1429 Motorplex Loop, Gilbert, AZ 85296

(480) 621-3700

VIRTUALLY YOURS? Half Empty or Half Full?

2011-10-17T15:24:00.000-07:00

Either way the National Student Food Drive is Half Over! So, now's the time to lean back in your chair, reach out to your keyboard and visit the VIRTUAL National Student Food Drive site with more than 20 schools ready to accept your donations to the school of your choice. With just a few touches of the keyvboard, you can help these high students help others meet the challenges of living with hunger using the link below.

The Virtual National Student Food Drive http://www.firstfoodbank.org/NSFD.html

Over 30 HIGH SCHOOLS … TWO FOOD BANKS … ONE GOAL … -- 1/2 Way There!

2011-10-17T08:25:00.000-07:00

The month long 2011 National Student Food Drive is at its half-way mark with a coordinated effort between St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance and United Food Bank. We want to share a SHOUT OUT for their efforts so far and those planned for the last weeks of the drive.. GO FOR IT -- Apollo High School, Arcadia High School, Caeer Success High School, Carl Hayden High School, Centennial High School, Compadre High School, Compadre North High School, Copper Canyon High School, Corona del Sol High School, Crestview High School, Deer Valley High School, Desert Ridge High School, Dysart High School, Greenway High School, Ironwood High School, Liberty High School, James Madison Prep Academy, Maryvale High School, Marcos de Niza High School, Millennium High School, Moon Valley High School, Mountain Pointe High School, Mountain View High School, Mountain Ridge High School, Raymond Kellis High School, Sandra Day O’Connor High School, South Mountain High School, South Ridge High School, Tolleson High School, Trevor Brown High School, Williams Field High School and Willow Canyon High School.

Please support these schools with your support, food and funds donation.

PEORIA’S HALLOWEEN MONSTER BASH OCT. 29

2011-10-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

Looking for a safe place to take your kids for a great Halloween experience? The City of Peoria has the perfect destination.
The annual Halloween Monster Bash & Balloon Illumination will be Friday, Oct. 29 from 5- 9 p.m. at the Peoria Sports Complex. It’s the perfect place for kids from toddlers to age 12 to enjoy all the atmosphere of a small-town Halloween fair in the big city.

Activities include a hot air balloon illumination sponsored by Alliance Urgent Care, a parade of costumes for each age group (ages 1 & under through 12), a haunted house, hay rides, inflatable’s, carnival games, puppet shows, slime making, rock walls, face painting a much more.

Admission is FREE with a canned food donation to St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance in Surprise! Last year, this drive raised over 9,000 pounds of food for the hungry of the West Valley, and with the holidays right around the corner this food is desperately needed to fill emergency and holiday food boxes. For more information, visit www.peoriaaz.gov.

Soaring Suburban Poverty Catches Communities Unprepared

2011-10-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

Millions of suburban households in a nation previously accustomed to thinking of suburbia in upwardly mobile terms: They are poor.

They are officially so according to the federal government's definition, which sets the poverty line for a family of five at an annual income of $26,023 or less.
Full Story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/13/suburban-povertys-dramati_n_1007332.html?igoogle=1?igoogle=1

2011 National Student Food Drive Video Showcase No. 1: Mountain Ridge High School

2011-10-12T14:22:00.000-07:00

Poised to defend their NSFD crown for the fourth consecutive year, the Student Government team from Mountain Ridge High School showed their enthusiasm and determination this year when KEZ (99.9 FM) and Marty Manning visited the campus recently.

Here is Marty’s report, including interviews with the students, principal and staff from the champs:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkKbpC3l_C4&feature=youtu.be

We are almost halfway through this year’s October-long drive, hoping to top last year’s record total of 145,000 meals and give the Food Bank and big boost heading into the holiday season. KEZ will be checking in with Marcos de Niza, Mountain Pointe and South Mountain High School during the course of the month to see what the Padres, Pride and Jaguars are up to when it comes to making Mountain Pointe sweat this year!

Peralta Elementary School Teams Up With St. Mary's Food Bank & Target's "Meals for Minds" Program

2011-10-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

More than 80 percent of the children at Peralta Elementary School in west Phoenix are members of families who struggle with hunger on a daily basis. But thanks to a great partnership with Target and its “Meals for Minds” , St. Mary’s Food Bank distributed more than 22,000 pounds of fresh fruits, vegetables and bread to more than 1,000 Peralta students and their families on Oct. 7.

It was a huge day for Peralta in other ways. Target also completely refurbished the school’s library, adding 2,000 new books, a complete technology upgrade with computers and iPads as well as new furniture, carpet and shelves. Each student also received seven new books to add to their own at-home collections.

St. Mary’s will visit Peralta and Garfield Elementary School in central Phoenix every other week this fall, distributing more nutritious, fresh food like potatoes, salad, pears, cauliflower and celery for the kids to take home to their families to incorporate into meals. The smiles on the faces of the children, parents and St. Mary’s and Target employees told the story – this was an incredible community event that will replayed again and again this fall.

Thanks to Fox 10’s Alexis Vance for the great television coverage. Thanks to the administration and staff at Peralta for being such wonderful hosts. And to Target leader and St. Mary’s Board Member Paul Magee and all the hard-working Target employees – thank you for all your hard work and we’ll see you all next time!

Click here to see Fox 10 Story:

http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/dpp/news/education/school-participates-in-targets-meals-for-minds-program-10072011

2011 National Student Food Drive Video Showcase No. 1: Mountain Ridge High School

2011-10-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

Poised to defend their NSFD crown for the fourth consecutive year, the Student Government team from Mountain Ridge High School showed their enthusiasm and determination this year when KEZ (99.9 FM) and Marty Manning visited the campus recently.
Here is Marty’s report, including interviews with the students, principal and staff from the champs: Check out the Mountain Ridge Food Drive Video Showcase at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkKbpC3l_C4&feature=youtu.be

We are almost halfway through this year’s October-long drive, hoping to top last year’s record total of 145,000 meals and give the Food Bank and big boost heading into the holiday season.

KEZ will be checking in with Marcos de Niza, Mountain Pointe and South Mountain High School during the course of the month to see what the Padres, Pride and Jaguars are up to when it comes to making Mountain Pointe sweat this year!

H.O.G's Biker Challenge: Provided 80,000 Meals

2011-10-12T09:11:00.000-07:00

Anthem H.O.G. Chapter 2376 in Anthem wins Third Annual “Bikers Challenge” Trophy;
Will Host Post-Ride Award Ceremony and Lunch on Oct. 16 @ Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson
The Valley chapters of the Harley Davidson Owners Groups (H.O.G.) have just completed the third annual Biker’s Challenge Food Drive for St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance – with enough food and funds collected to provide a record 80,000 meals for the hungry of Arizona.

The total of meals collected for 2011 more than doubles the 35,000 meals collected in 2010 and raises the total number of meals collected during the three-year challenge to more than 130,000 meals.

This year’s “Biker’s Challenge” Trophy goes to H.O.G.® chapter 2376 based out of the Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson location in Anthem. This is the third different chapter in three years to capture the trophy, Joining Buddy Stubbs H.O.G. Chapter 93 in Phoenix in 2009 and Superstition H.O.G.® Chapter 1743 in Apache Junction in 2010.

As champions, Chapter 2476 and Buddy Stubbs/Anthem (41715 N. 41st Drive in Anthem, 85086) will also serve as the final destination of this Sunday’s Biker’s Challenge Hunger Ride, with stops at each participating Harley-Davidson locations to collect the food and funds raise for the ride to Anthem prior to a celebration lunch and award ceremony. St. Mary’s would like to thank Anthem Harley –Davidson and Hammered HOGS BBQ for donating all the food and fixings for the lunch.

Help St. Mary's Food Bank & Enjoy FREE Admission to the AZ State Fair!

2011-10-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

The Arizona State Fair opens on Oct. 14 with a great lineup of entertainment, rides and all that delicious food! And this year, the Fair is partnering with St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance for the first of three “We Care Wednesdays” to benefit local Valley non-profits.

OK, here’s the deal: Anyone who brings a donation of three non-perishable food items (per person) to the fair on Wednesday, Oct. 19 receives FREE ADMISSION into the fair from noon to 6 p.m. The offer is good for an unlimited amount of people, but each person will need three items to receive the discount. Just look for the St. Mary’s Food Bank volunteers stationed at each of the four main entrances to the fair and exchange your donation for a voucher that can be used at the ticket trailer.

Wait, it gets better! From noon to 6 p.m. all rides and games at the fair are just two dollars. So not only can you save on admission but you can save money on all the fun as well.

So come on out on Oct. 19 and help yourself to a great deal while helping to feed Arizona’s hungry. St. Mary’s thanks the Arizona State Fair for this opportunity and encourages everyone to have fun at the fair!

Recession Officially Over, U.S. Incomes Kept Falling

2011-10-11T08:57:00.000-07:00

In a grim sign of the enduring nature of the economic slump, household income declined more in the two years after the recession ended than it did during the recession itself, new research has found.
Source: New York times, Robert Pear, October 9, 2011
Full Story: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/10/us/recession-officially-over-us-incomes-kept-falling.html?_r=1&nl=todaysheadlines&emc=tha2

We DARE You!

2011-10-11T07:18:00.000-07:00

2011-10-10T16:25:00.000-07:00

CVS Caremark Raises 35,000 Meals For Arizona’s Hungry!

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank Jim Hintzen and the crew at CVS Caremark who were able to raise $5,000 – allowing the Food Bank to distribute enough meals for 35,000 meals this year. Getting participation from all four Scottsdale locations and CVS Caremark’s Corporate approval, a Jeans Week was hosted – with employee’s donating $5 each to St. Mary’s Food Bank to be able to wear jeans to work that week. This is their third and most successful year of fundraising yet!

Lou Evers helped by coordinating volunteers and also donated a guitar signed by Hall of Fame inductee Alice Cooper. Lots of tickets were sold separately for the guitar drawing and it generated lots of interest. Gloria Ortega of St. Mary’s created a joint fundraising website which significantly helped to raise money. Mike Barro of Barro’s Pizza also generously donated pizza and wings for a volunteer appreciation/check presenting ceremony. Next year’s fundraising event is already being planned!

For Hunger Action Month, Thank You!

2011-10-10T16:17:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who took part in Hunger Action Month during September 2011!

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance was overwhelmed and impressed with the number of people who took the “30 Ways in 30 Days” challenge to a new level and set about making a difference. The size and scope of each gift was wide, but the idea and the goal was the same: Helping our neighbors
.
We received a 55,000-meal donation from Scottsdale Bible Church, a $40,000 donation from Fry’s Food Stores, 30,000 pounds of protein from Tyson, 5,300 pounds of canned food from Flagstaff neighborhoods taking part in the “First Frost First Drive,” 2,000-plus meals from Gordon Biersch through their keg tapping party and more than 100 cans from a little girl named Catherine who walked around her block asking neighbors for help.

There were also thousands of other Arizona’s who dropped cans into a food box, made a cash donation St. Mary’s or volunteered their time and energy at one of our four locations or dozens of off-site events. On behalf of the hungry of Arizona, we are humbled and we applaud your efforts.

A big thanks from The Chew!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=QFOfgUy4NJc

Just the FACTS please!

2011-10-10T14:25:00.000-07:00

OK, here are the FACTS. Hunger FACTS
• Nearly 1 in 5 Arizonans lives in poverty. That is 21% of the population. This number is higher than the national average of 1 in every 6 Americans, equal to 15% of the population.

• 2 million Arizonans are considered working poor, living at or below the Federal Poverty Guideline. This is the majority of those served by the Food Bank’s EFB (Emergency Food Box) program.

• Nearly 400,000 Arizona children, about 1 in every 4, live in poverty; 37% are under the age of 5.
• More than 574,000 low-income and children in Arizona participate in the National School Lunch Program, which provides thousands of free and reduced-price lunches.
http://www.firstfoodbank.org/

FREE FACES & BASICS Training Available

2011-10-07T08:36:00.000-07:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance’s Hunger 101AZ education programs continues to offer learning opportunities related to the issues of poverty, hunger, and advocacy to better understand these issues , as well as effective means to advocate for change to face these challenges in Arizona. The training is offered at No Charge to the public.

There are still seats available for our Hunger 101 Faces of Hunger (Oct 18th) and Advocacy: The BASICS (Oct 21st) training. These two (2) presentations are very valuable to have a fuller understanding as to who are these people facing the challenges of hunger in Arizona, why this situation exists and what can individuals and groups due to help be part of the solution to these and related issues facing those in need in our state.

For more information or to register contact Ray Combe at rlcombe@firstfoodbank.org

or 602-343-3164.

Way To Go Copper Canyon High School

2011-10-06T10:58:00.000-07:00

Copper Canyon received the first 2011 National Student Food Drive Virtual donation through St. Mary's individual high school virtual food drive pages.

Now, let's see what the other many schools can gather in the "Virtual World" during this drive.

FIRST FROST FOOD DRIVE COLLECTS 5,300 POUNDS FOR NORTHERN ARIZONA’S HUNGRY

2011-10-06T08:55:00.000-07:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank all those who took part in the third annual “First Frost Food Drive” on Sunday Oct. 2.

Flagstaff homeowners left more than 5,300 pounds of non-perishable food items on their doorsteps and in front of mailboxes – the most food ever collected in the three-year history of the drive! More than 70 volunteers teamed to sour the neighborhoods and make sure the food was collected and brought back to St. Mary’s to fill the hundreds of emergency food boxes distributed to northern Arizona’s hungry each month.

People in northern Arizona who still wish take part, simply bring your non-perishable food donations to the St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance Flagstaff facility (1801 W. Route 66) between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and a St. Mary’s representative will be happy to accept your gift to help the one in four children in northern Arizona who struggle with food insecurity.

"More Than Food... Hope"

Reverse Radio-a-Thon: One Phone Call Equals A Donation from Culinary Confessions!

2011-10-05T16:36:00.000-07:00

A food and restaurant showed called "Culinary Confessions" is celebrating its 15th anniversary this week. They are on KAZG (1440 AM) each day from 11 am to 1 p.m., and this Thursday on October 6, 2011 they will be holding a “Reverse Radio-a-Thon” to celebrate their birthday and raise money for St. Mary’s. For that two-hour time slot, they are asking people to call in, say hello and tell the hosts what food they are most grateful for. In other words, you’re favorite food. That’s it.

This is how easy it is: You call, tell them your name & your favorite food and then they say, “We’re talking to John Dough. He says hello and that she’s most grateful for Pepperoni Pizza.”
Boom. Done. $10 to St. Mary’s.

Last year, the show took 65 calls and raised $650 for United Food Bank. I think we can do better. If we light up the phone lines consistently for two hours, we can sneak in 100 calls and raise $1,000 – 7,000 meals for a few phone calls.

The phone number is (480) 668-EATS. That’s (480) 668-3287. You can start calling right at 11 a.m. If you get a busy signal, wait a few minutes and try again. You can listen to the show on 1440 AM, but don’t forget to turn down your radio if you get through and are put on hold.

ONE phone call will make a difference. Help St. Mary's Food Bank put a stop to hunger.

"All Ways You Can Help"

2011-10-05T13:38:00.000-07:00

WAY #8:

Hold a school or community event where admission or discounts are provided when food donations are provided during attendence!

Have fun and get everyone involved to help stop hunger!

"All Ways You Can Help"

2011-10-03T16:28:00.000-07:00

Everyone can help end hunger. Here's one way you can lend a hand: Contribute to and participate with St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance food drives. For more information, visit http://firstfoodbank.org/hunger101/

END HUNGER - CHANGE LIVES.

Help St. Mary's & Help Yourself to a FREE Treat!

2011-10-03T12:52:00.000-07:00

Here’s a great way to help Arizona’s hungry while satisfying your sweet tooth. During the entire month of October, bring two non-perishable food items for St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance to any of three Culver’s locations and enjoy a free one-scoop dessert. There is no purchase necessary, but when you see the great menu of goodies that Culver’s has to offer, just a dessert won’t be good enough.

The offer begins on Oct. 1 and is good at the following Culver’s locations:

*825 E. Camelback Road. in Phoenix

*16145 W. Bell Rd. in Surprise

*8271 W. Ludlow Dr. in Peoria

US Airways Helps Keep National Student Food Drive Flying High

2011-09-29T15:40:00.000-07:00

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance would like to thank US Airways, one of the original sponsors of the National Student Food Drive, for their continued support of this event. US Airways offers one of the top prizes to the winning schools each year and continues to seek new and unique ways to spread the news about the hunger problem in Arizona and the ways each of us can help.

Thank you US Airways. From Send Hunger Packing in the Summer to the National Student Food Drive in the fall to the countless hours of volunteering by the “Do Crew” in our warehouse, you are truly the Food Bank’s special friend in the skies.

THE FIRST FROST IS COMING TO NORTHERN ARIZONA … AND SO IS THE FIRST FROST FOOD DRIVE

2011-09-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

Those summer temperatures are finally on the decline and the first frost is just round the corner in Flagstaff. That means rising heat bills and more people in need of help to feed and keep their families war in the winter.
The St. Mary’s Flagstaff Facilities third annual “First Frost” Food drive is set for this Sunday, Oct. 2 in selected Flagstaff neighborhoods. If you received a St. Mary’s door hanger during the past week, more than 200 volunteers will be in your neighborhood to collect non-perishable food donations. Simply leave the donations in a bad near your mailbox and our volunteers will do the rest.

If you didn’t receive a flyer and still wish to be a part of the drive, simply bring your non-perishable food donations to the St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance Flagstaff facility (1801 W. Route 66) between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sunday and volunteers and staff will gladly accept them. Of course if Sunday is a busy day for your family, the Food Bank facility is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to accept your help for northern Arizona’s Hungry.
Distributing more than 12 million pounds of food annually to dozens of local non-profit partner agencies, St. Mary’s is proud to be Flagstaff’s food bank!

32 HIGH SCHOOLS … TWO FOOD BANKS … ONE GOAL

2011-09-29T12:27:00.000-07:00

For the second year in a row, more than 30 Valley High Schools will participate in the National Student Food Drive. This year, the drive is a coordinated effort between St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance and United Food Bank and the Sept. 27 kickoff event was a huge success. A packed Community Room was full of enthusiasm thanks to special guests Pat McReynolds of KPHO Channel 5 (emcee) and Howler, the Phoenix Coyotes mascot and with food from Sara Lee and Coca Cola and the announcement of prizes from KEZ (99.9 FM), US Airways and Harkins Theatres there was plenty of incentives – not to mention bragging rights and the John van Hengel Memorial Cup – on the line during the next month.

St. Mary’s would like to thank the 32 high schools below for their great spirit and dedication to fight hunger in Arizona:
1. Apollo High School (Student Council)
2. Career Success High School (Student Council)
3. Carl Hayden High School (Student Government)
4. Centennial High School (Library)
5. Compadre High School
6. Compadre North High School
7. Copper Canyon High School
8. Corona del Sol High School
9. Crestview High School (School Leadership)
10. Deer Valley High School
11. Desert Ridge High School
12. Dysart High School (Key Club)
13. Greenway High School (Student Government)
14. Ironwood High School (National Honor Society)
15. Liberty High School (DECA)
16. James Madison Prep Academy
17. Maryvale High School
18. Marcos de Niza High School (National Honor Society)
19. Millennium High School (Interact)
20. Moon Valley High School (National Honor Society/Key Club/ Student Government)
21. Mountain Pointe High School
22. Mountain View High School
23. Mountain Ridge High School (Student Council)
25. Raymond Kellis High School (Business)
26. Sandra Day O’Connor High School (Student Leadership)
27. South Mountain High School (ROTC)
28. South Ridge High School (School Leadership)
29. Tolleson High School
30. Trevor Brown High School
31. Williams Field High School
32. Willow Canyon High School (Key Club)
KIDS HELPING KIDS … 2011 NATIONAL STUDENT FOOD DRIVE … HERE WE GO AGAIN … Good luck to everyone. Now … on your mark … get set ….

WHEN IT’S THE ROCK N’ BOX FINALE … WHO YA GONNA CALL?

2011-09-28T16:40:00.000-07:00

WHEN IT’S THE ROCK N’ BOX FINALE … WHO YA GONNA CALL?

Tuesday was a great night at the Del E. Webb Distribution Center and a great night for more than 100 volunteers who closed out the 2011 summer Rock N’ Box season with a tribute to the 1980s. And who better to help bring back that 80s feel than the Arizona Ghostbusters, who made a special appearance along with their trademark ambulance to add a special Stay-Puft Marshmallow experience to the whole night.

With our volunteers powered by a great dinner provided by our friends at Whataburger, more than 65,000 pounds of donated food was sorted and placed into emergency food boxes – more than 40,000 of which will be distributed to hungry families at our Knight Center location just in the month of September alone. It was a great night of food, fun and philanthropy and the smiles on the faces of the volunteers told the story.
A big thanks to all the organizations present including Phoenix Philanthropists, Coca Cola, Arizona Public Service, Whataburger, CIGNA, All Saints Episcopal Day School and Peoria North Rotary Club, Ahwatukee Foothills NCL, DLA Piper, United Health Care for their participation in this final Rock N Box of the season.
We hope to see everyone back in 2012 for another summer of fun

CHARITY TENNIS TOURNAMENT IN SUN CITY GRAND BENEFITS ST. MARY’S IN SURPRISE

2011-09-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

The Sun City Grand Tennis Club will host its annual “Shine in the Sun” senior tennis tournament this November.

The event is November 9 – 13, and this year’s tournament will benefit St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance in Surprise.
Plan on some fine competition, and join our Tennis Celebration on Sunday afternoon in the Sun City ...Grand Adobe Tennis Park. Your entry into the tournament includes the Sunday celebration and a t-shirt. Guest tickets can be purchased. Spouses and friends are welcome!!
Even if you are not playing in the tournament, come and watch! And, bring non-perishable canned goods to place in the donation boxes for the food bank. Let’s have some fun, and help those less fortunate in our community!!
Food Bank web site: http://www.firstfoodbank.org/

Faces of Hunger FREE Hunger 101 Feed Your Mind Training

2011-09-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

When: Oct 18th (Tues), 8:30-9:30AM

What: Introduction to hunger and poverty in Arizona. Introduce the concepts of poverty and hunger, as well as the groups of people who live with hunger and poverty in America

Where: Location: MultiPurpose Conference Room, SMFBA Del Webb Center, 2831 N. 31st Ave, Phoenix, AZ

FREE Hunger 101AZ Training -- Advocacy: The BASICS -- Feed Your Mind

2011-09-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

When: Oct 21st (Fri), 1:00PM-2:00PM

What: Introduction to hunger and poverty in Arizona. Introduce the concepts of poverty and hunger, as well as the groups of people who live with hunger and poverty in America

Where:: MultiPurpose Conference Room, SMFBA Del Webb Center, 2831 N. 31st Ave., Phoenix, AZ

2011 National Student Food Drive KICKS-OFF tonight

2011-09-27T10:08:00.000-07:00

2011 National Student Food Drive KICKS-OFF tonight with more than 30 high schools across the Valley collecting food in conjunction with St Mary's Food Bank Alliance and United Food Bank.

Check with the high school nearest you to see if they are participating and how you can support their students as they work to be part of the Solution to Hunger in Arizona

There's STILL TIME to join -- 2011 Harvest Interfaith Food Drive

2011-09-23T09:11:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Harvest Interfaith Food Drive is underway, but there’s still encourage your faith-based contacts join in the effort which started last Sunday, September 18th and will run through Sunday October 2nd.

Now’s the time for members of all faiths to take action that supports their messages of compassion by making a difference with this critical need to feed those among and about us.
For more information about joining our Harvest Interfaith Food Drive, you or your faith community leader may contact me at (602) 343-3169 or by email at cdprovorse@firstfoodbank.org

Recession Turning Young Adults Into Lost Generation

2011-09-22T12:41:00.000-07:00

Young adults are the recession's lost generation.

In record numbers, they're struggling to find work, shunning long-distance moves to live with mom and dad, delaying marriage and raising kids out of wedlock, if they're becoming parents at all

Full Story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/22/census-recession-young-adults_n_975476.html?igoogle=1

ATTENTION FOOD BANK FRIENDS AND SHUTTERBUGS

2011-09-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

… HELP US CAPTURE THE BEST IMAGES OF CHASE TOWER THIS THURSDAY

St. Mary’s Food Bank needs your help! As part of the nation-wide Light Up Hunger program to promote Hunger Action Month, the good folks at Chase Tower are going to illuminate the state’s tallest building bright orange – the color of hunger – on Thursday, Sept. 22 from 7-11 p.m.
We are asking any photographers or just friends of the food bank to snap pictures of the 40-story, 483-foot building from different locations around downtown – and the Valley – so we can see just how cool this looks! Camera phones are great too.

Just snap a photo and post it on the St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/firstfoodbank
Need some incentive? Glad you asked. The five best pictures of Light Up Hunger, St. Mary’s style will win one a limited edition St. Mary’s stuffed turkey for your very own. Deadline for submissions will be Tuesday, Sept 27 and the winners will be announced on Thursday, Sept. 29. So when the sun sets this Thursday, help us capture the best images of this truly unique opportunity to big awareness to the one in five Arizonans – and one in four children – who will go to bed hungry that night. We’re anxious to see your photos!

Happy Birthday Mr. Molay

2011-09-19T15:51:00.000-07:00

St. Mary’s throws birthday bash for 10-year volunteer
Art Molay considers his fellow volunteers and the staff at St. Mary’s Food Bank his family, and they are a big factor in why he continues to put in hours at the Surprise location.

On Thursday, he celebrated his 98th birthday there.
“All these wonderful people here, they’re fantastic,” Molay said. “It’s a nice crew.”

Molay, a Sun City resident, works with the Kids Café program, chopping vegetables and preparing sandwiches for more than 2,000 children each day, but he took a short break Thursday morning to enjoy a small party with the St. Mary’s staff and his friends from the Temple Beth Shalom synagogue.
Full Story at: http://www.yourwestvalley.com/topstory/article_312031ea-e08e-11e0-9267-001cc4c002e0.html

HUNGER IS ALL AROUND YOU, EVERY DAY…

2011-09-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

BUT THIS THURSDAY, THERE’S NO WAY YOU CAN MISS IT!
With Governor Jan Brewer having proclaimed September as “Hunger Action Month” in the state of Arizona, the largest and brightest reminder of the hunger issue in Arizona will come on Thursday, Sept. 22 when the 40-story Chase Tower – Arizona’s tallest building – will glow orange for all downtown Phoenix to see.

As part of Feeding America national Light Up Hunger initiative, prominent buildings and landmarks across the country will be lit up orange – the color of hunger – during Hunger Action Month. The 483-foot Chase Tower will now join the Jeweler’s Building in Chicago, the Illinois State Capitol Building, the PECO building in Philadelphia and Ferris Wheel known as Big Eli in Ft. Smith Arkansas in lighting up orange to remind everyone that more than 1.4 million Arizonans are facing hunger on a daily basis.
So if you’re in or driving past downtown Phoenix on Thursday and you see that orange glow dominating the Phoenix skyline – think hunger and thank Chase!
St. Mary’s is making it easy to fight hunger this month with its “30 Ways in 30 Days” calendar, chock full of events, ideas and suggestions to encourage those in all walks of life to help fight hunger themselves or through their businesses, churches, clubs or groups.
For more information and a complete “30 Ways in 30 Days” calendar of events, log on to www.firstfoodbank.org.

‎15th Way in 30 Days of Hunger Action Month

2011-09-15T09:37:00.000-07:00

Be a food bank corporate partner like Phusion Projects which is volunteering and donating TODAY!

Hunger 101 AZ

USDA Unveils Historic Improvements to Meals Served in America’s Schools

HORN OF PLENTY now available online

EMPOWERING HABITS, EMPOWERING LIVES…

Betty Fairfax Kiddie Kollege Kids Makes a Difference

Sun City Grand Softball Club Donates More than 20,000 Meals

An American tradition turns 100 this year

St. Mary’s Food Bank Needs Your Citrus Donations this Winter!!!!

Councilman Daniel Valenzuela leads Food Drive to benefit St. Mary’s

Cleveland Indians Pitcher Vinnie Pestano Helps Hungry at Knight Center

Best Western International Donates nearly 4,000 meals During Food and Fund Drive

The Holiday Spirit!

Fry’s Donates More Than 500,000 Meals With Special Holiday Gift To St. Mary’s

Local Vintage Chevy Club Collects More Than 10,000 Meals For Arizona’s Hungry

“Cadena de Gente Buena” - Univision Channel 33 Encourages Support for St. Mary’s

THANK YOU AAM HOA Management Company

2011 Arizona Civic Health Index

ARIZONA - 3rd in U.S.

2011 National Student Food Drive Awards

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Grand Tennis Club Raises More Than 42,000 Meals for the Hungry

With a LOTTA HELP from our Friends

Arizona Celebration of Lights Continues –

Line Grows Long for Free Meals at U.S. Schools

WESTGATE CITY CENTER, DeVRY UNIVERSITY VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL GROUPS TEAM FOR 2ND ANNUAL BOWLS FOR HUNGRY EVENT

HAPPY VALLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AGAIN COMES THROUGH FOR ARIZONA’S HUNGRY!

ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL CHURCH & DAY SCHOOL COLLECTS MORE THAN 24,000 MEALS DURING ANNUAL HOLIDAY FOOD & FUNDS DRIVE

SERVPRO DONATES 2,100 POUNDS OF THANKSGIVING TURKEYS AND SIDES TO KICK OFF SUPER SATURDAY FESTIVITIES

Pei Wei Holiday Food Drive!!!

Congratulations to John Demetra 2011 Spirit of Philanthropy Award Winner

It's the ASU vs UA Rivalry Football Game, but Kind Food Donations Please!

GET YOUR TURKEYS READY, SUPER SATURDAY THIS SATURDAY!

Roger Clyne & P.H Naffah Puts on a Concert to Help St. Mary Feed the Hungry!

Drink Wine for Hunger!

Fill a Boot? Fill a Box? It’s Fill-A Fire Truck For St. Mary’s Food Bank!

RENT-A-CENTER’S ‘SOUP-TO-NUTS’ CAMPAIGN DONATES $20,000 TO ST. MARY’S FOOD BANK

Seasonal Elucidation #53:

BOWL OVER HUNGER AT CH ROBINSON BOWL-A THON ON NOV. 12 @ AMF DESERT HILLS

GET A FREE OTIS SPUNKMEYER COOKIE FROM SPICY PICKLE W/A 3-CAN DONATION TO ST. MARY’S

Save $2 on Admission to the AZ Celebration of Lights w/a 3-Can Donation to St. Mary’s Food Bank

ST. MARY’S FOOD BANK ASSISTS HEROES TO HOMETOWNS WITH HOLIDAY TURKEY & FOOD DISTRIBUTIONS TO AZ SOLDIERS

Aloha Yogurt, Mojo Yogurt and Smashburger Partner with ASU4Food for Holiday Fundraiser

Watch HUNGER Disappear at ASU's Homecoming

ARIZONA OFFENSIVE LINEMAN, REX HADNOT, SAGICOR KICKS OFF CARDINALS FOOD DRIVE WITH 1ST DONATIONS

Twisted Manga Team and Cosplayers for a Cause

Jaguars CAN Dance & gather food at the same time

THANKS TO ASU4FOOD & ALL SUNDEVIL DONORS FOR MAKING HUNGER DISAPPEAR AT HOMECOMING!

Arizona Surprise Police G.A.I.N Night

Go "Make Hunger Disappear" During ASU Homecoming!

NSFD Question #3 WINNER!

3rd ANNUAL ZOMBIE WALK OCT. 29 THROUGH DOWNTOWN PHX!

Organically sound riddle:

ARIZONA STATE FAIR “WE CARE WEDNESDAY” FOOD DRIVE NETS MORE THAN 32,000 POUNDS

Come Help Families With TruWest Credit Union!

TRY YOUR LUCK & HELP FEED THE HUNGRY AT CONNECTIONS CASINO NIGHT!

If not you, WHO?

1 in 5 American kids face hunger everyday. No child should go to bed hungry

You can help do something about this by making a call or asking a question, contacting a local family services center, checking with your local school or touching base with a food bank to learn more of the many ways YOU CAN HELP! If not you, WHO?

www.hunger101az.org

VALLEY HARLEY OWNERS GROUPS® RAISE RECORD 84,000 MEALS DURING THIRD ANNUAL BIKER’S CHALLENGE FOOD DRIVE

FORD MOTOR COMPANY, CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF PHOENIX & ST. MARY'S FOOD DRIVE TEAM UP!

VIRTUALLY YOURS? Half Empty or Half Full?

Over 30 HIGH SCHOOLS … TWO FOOD BANKS … ONE GOAL … -- 1/2 Way There!

Please support these schools with your support, food and funds donation.

PEORIA’S HALLOWEEN MONSTER BASH OCT. 29

Soaring Suburban Poverty Catches Communities Unprepared

2011 National Student Food Drive Video Showcase No. 1: Mountain Ridge High School

Peralta Elementary School Teams Up With St. Mary's Food Bank & Target's "Meals for Minds" Program

2011 National Student Food Drive Video Showcase No. 1: Mountain Ridge High School

H.O.G's Biker Challenge: Provided 80,000 Meals

Help St. Mary's Food Bank & Enjoy FREE Admission to the AZ State Fair!

Recession Officially Over, U.S. Incomes Kept Falling

We DARE You!

For Hunger Action Month, Thank You!

Just the FACTS please!

FREE FACES & BASICS Training Available

Way To Go Copper Canyon High School

Copper Canyon received the first 2011 National Student Food Drive Virtual donation through St. Mary's individual high school virtual food drive pages.

Now, let's see what the other many schools can gather in the "Virtual World" during this drive.

FIRST FROST FOOD DRIVE COLLECTS 5,300 POUNDS FOR NORTHERN ARIZONA’S HUNGRY

1 in 5 American kids face hunger everyday.
No child should go to bed hungry