By Staff Reports | Community Updates
Advance Community has received a $100,000 donation from Molina Healthcare of Arizona in support of the Phoenix-based nonprofit’s Food Box Program.
The donation enabled Advance to purchase a refrigerated van that will be used to deliver nutritious food boxes to underserved communities, according to a press release
Advance, a nonprofit working locally and globally to break cycles of poverty through health education, nutrition and access to care, used the van for the first time on Friday, Aug. 8.
Volunteers prepared more than 90 hand-packed boxes of fresh food, which were delivered to Valleywise Health patients. The Valleywise Health Foundation, a Phoenix-based nonprofit, provides financial support for critical patient and program needs, including Advance’s Food Box Program.
Each 25-pound box is curated with staples such as bread, eggs, butter, plant-based milk, spices, grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables—enough to feed a family of four for two to three days. Recipes are included to help families make the most of the ingredients.
Since launching the program in June 2024, Advance has delivered 2,464 boxes to 442 participants, providing consistent access to fresh, healthy meals. Deliveries occur twice a month.
“This van is so much more than transportation—it’s a lifeline,” said Jeri Royce, CEO of Advance Community. “It allows us to reach more families with healthy food, dignity and hope. With Molina’s generosity, and the support of other community partners, we can continue breaking barriers to health and ensure that no one is left behind,” Ms. Royce said.
“Molina shares Advance’s mission to enhance access to critical resources for underserved communities,” said Ms. Minnie Andrade, plan president of Molina Healthcare of Arizona. “We are grateful for the opportunity to join Advance in the great work they are doing to bring healthy, nutritious food to Arizonians, helping to improve their lives and well-being,” Ms. Andrade said.
Delta Dental supported the van’s community presence by funding the van wrap, while Valleywise Health Foundation is ensuring the program’s long-term impact by funding the vehicle’s ongoing maintenance.
