Rising food prices push 2,000 people a day to an Arizona food bank

For many families in Arizona's West Valley, the local food bank has become a daily lifeline.

The Valley View Community Food Bank in Arizona served 900,000 people last year, and about 2,000 people now come through its doors each day.

Here's what to know

According to the Sun City West Independent, the local nonprofit is on track to help even more people this year.

Amy Tekulve, Valley View's director of marketing, said rising food prices are making it harder for the organization to keep up with the growing number of people seeking assistance.

"The need continues to grow," Tekulve stated in an email to the publication.

She said the food bank is also seeing a shift in who is seeking help.

"Many working families and seniors are finding it more difficult to make ends meet," Tekulve said. "We're seeing more first-time visitors seeking assistance than ever before."

More background

Since moving to 10733 W. Peoria Ave. in Sun City, Valley View has found it easier to receive, organize, and distribute food.

Tekulve said support from schools, churches, businesses, civic organizations, and service clubs has been a major bright spot. Valley View has had stronger volunteer support this year, including help from new corporate and community groups.

Residents looking for nearby food pantries can use vivery.org. The site lists 16 food distribution locations within five miles of Sun City and 20 within 10 miles.

Lawless said that some local churches also run weekly food pantries that many residents may not know about.

What can be done?

Tekulve said financial support is Valley View's biggest need right now, adding that direct donations help the food bank buy supplies at reduced prices through partner networks.

"Monetary donations allow us to purchase food at significantly reduced costs through our food bank partners, stretching every dollar much further than traditional retail purchases," Tekulve stated.

She also said volunteers are still needed, and donations of nonperishable food remain helpful.

According to Tekulve, the organization's mission is to "ensure that no family has to choose between paying bills and putting food on the table." 

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