Arizona food banks need your help during 100-Ton Food Drive

PHOENIX - As the 100-Ton Food Drive kicks off in Arizona, those in need are pleading for your help.

The goal of the food drive is to raise 100 tons of donated food during the month of February. The donations will go to agencies such as United Food Bank and St. Mary's Food Bank, which connect food with those in need in the Valley.

"When you're on a limited income, you don't take it for granted anymore," said Denise Wetzler, who uses United Food Bank to put food on the table.

Those who work at the food banks tell ABC15 the need for donated items is greater than ever.

"People at this time last year had jobs and were doing OK," said Melissa Forrester with United Food Bank. "Now [they] have unfortunately lost their jobs and are coming to the food bank for the first time."

The food bank needs nonperishable food items, which will be distributed throughout the Valley. The food will make its way to people such as Wetzler, who are grateful for your help during tough times.

"It's a blessing to those of us that you give to," she said.

St. Mary's Food Bank has several programs to help those in need across the Valley. They provide emergency food boxes as well as provide food to organizations that will then distribute the donations.

St. Mary's also hosts Community Kitchen, a 16-week program that teaches "knife and life" skills to several dozen students at a time. The students are often those who need a second chance.

"It will really help you come down to earth and focus," said Justin Capaz who is in the program.

Community Kitchen has students spend eight weeks in the classroom before they finish the last eight weeks in the kitchen, learning to prepare meals in hopes of landing a job as a cook or chef.

"I was already looking in the right direction," Capaz said in reference to the program. "Now I'm moving in the right direction."

Community Kitchen uses donated food for the program, which helps students begin a career.

To support the 100-Ton Food Drive campaign, you can drop off nonperishable food products into the collection bins located at any Fry's Food Store or with a cash contribution, by using one of the $1 scan cards located at any cash register.