Staff Reports | Community Updates
Arizona families face real financial pressures during the summer as a result of rising utility costs and the added pressure of preparing three meals each day for their children.
Many of these working families are being stretched thin and turning to United Food Bank for help more than ever before.
In response, United Food Bank is proud to announce the return of the eighth annual Summer of a Million Meals fundraiser campaign, in partnership with 12News and Fry’s Food Stores, to assist families in need by raising $200,000 to provide one million meals.
“The Summer of a Million Meals fundraiser is one of our most important campaigns as it ensures every family has access to the meals they need,” said Jason Reed, president and CEO of United Food Bank. “We are excited to once again continue our efforts to support Arizona families with 12News and Fry’s Food Stores. We can’t do it alone, and that is why we are asking for your help to ensure no child goes hungry.”
Throughout the summer, United Food Bank, in partnership with 12News, will host two more telethon events on July 10, and Aug. 14. During these telethons, 12News viewers can call United Food Bank to donate at 480-398-4499 during the times of 5:30 a.m. to 7 a.m. and again from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
In addition, Arizonans also have the option to donate online at azmillionmeals.org or at any of the registers at Fry’s Food Stores through Labor Day.
New this year, United Food Bank is challenging Arizonans to go the extra step with its Food Fight competition.
Businesses can register their team to participate in the Food Fight competition and earn points by collecting food, donating funds, volunteering, and showing up for their community. The team with the most points will be crowned the winner at the final telethon event on Aug. 14 and be recognized on live TV on 12News. To register your business, visit unitedfoodbank.org/food-fight-sign-up/.
“Each year, the need grows and so does the impact of this campaign,” said president and general manager of 12News, Kate Morris. “The Summer of a Million Meals is more than a fundraiser; it’s a community commitment to ensure no child or family goes hungry. For eight years, 12News has been honored to stand alongside United Food Bank and Fry’s Food Stores, and each year, the support from our viewers and partners becomes more meaningful. Together, we can make sure Arizona families have the meals they need and the hope they deserve.”
Monica Garnes, president of Fry’s Food Stores, says she is proud to be a part of the fight to end hunger in Arizona.
“Fry’s Food Stores has been a leader in the fight to end hunger in Arizona for many years, which is part of our Zero Hunger | Zero Waste social impact plan.” she said. “The reason we’re able to stay focused on this important initiative is our great partnership with United Food Bank and other local food banks. We are proud to partner with United Food Bank and 12News for the Summer of a Million Meals campaign for the eighth consecutive year and we’re grateful to our wonderful customers and associates who continue to support this worthy cause, year after year.”
