A place helping feed hundreds of Mesa families each week is in need of help itself.
After the engine blew out on their refrigerated box truck, workers with the Streets of Joy center near Mesa and University drives say they’re only able to provide around half the usual amount of food to those battling addiction, exploitation, and homelessness.
“We’ve been doing our best with a 6-by-12-foot U-Haul trailer and ice chest,” said transportation director Jeff Walker.
Unfortunately, things aren't looking too good for their truck.
“There’s no cheap way to replace it,” Walker said. “Be it engine repair, engine replacement or truck replace, it’s going to be around $10,000.”
Streets of Joy is partnered with United Food Bank and required to use a refrigerated truck for pickups from grocery stores offering donations. With the limited supply, the center had to reduce their distribution days from four days per week to two.
“Without that capacity to bring in those donations we’ve been extremely limited,” Walker said.
The center hopes a local truck dealer or mechanic may be able to help. They’re also collecting donations through their Facebook page.
