Rosemary Douglas
Cost of living increases have greatly affected finances at the Tri-Community Food Bank (TCFB). Our largest monthly expense is the purchase of groceries (as a supplement to donated food) so that we can distribute nutritionally complete food boxes to our clients. In addition to higher food costs, we recently experienced an increase of almost 140% in our electric bill. This translates to a cost of over $2,000 per month to keep perishable items chilled and fresh. The TCFB is in the position of drawing on our reserves on a monthly basis to meet the current nutritional needs of the families we serve.
Price increases also affect our clients, who can least afford it. Recently, one of our clients came in to pick up his emergency food box and expressed worry that he may not be able to get home, as he didn’t have enough money to put gas in his car. The stress of food insecurity is combined with worries about rent and utility costs for many of our Pinal County neighbors.
How Can I/We Help?
Many of our generous SaddleBrooke and SaddleBrooke Ranch residents have asked how they can help. We are very grateful for all the assistance of time, goods, and funds that we receive and would not be able to stay open without them.
Our mailing address for monetary donations is Tri-Community Food Bank, P.O. Box 38, Mammoth, AZ 85618. Donated food items most needed are canned proteins such as tuna, chicken, beef, and SPAM. Food donations can be brought to the TCFB in Mammoth during our operating hours listed below, or put into the TCFB donation box located in Bashas’ in Catalina.
The Tri-Community Food Bank is an all-volunteer organization. The TCFB is located at 108 Redwood Rd., in Mammoth. We are open five days a week (Monday through Thursday and Saturday) from 9 a.m. to noon, to serve the communities of Oracle, San Manuel, Mammoth, and Dudleyville.
The Tri-Community Food Bank is an IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and an Arizona Qualifying Charitable Organization. We spend 0% for administration costs and are totally supported by your generous donations. The TCFB also receives food donations from the United Food Bank in Mesa, Ariz.