Local food banks in Pima County are teaming up to bring holiday meals to families in need. This season, they are ensuring that thousands of households receive a main dish, focusing on whole chickens for their holiday dinners.
Organizations like Interfaith Community Services, Greater Vail Community Resources, Marana Food Bank and Community Resource Center, Sahuarita Food Bank and Community Resource Center, and Arivaca Human Resources have come together to manage a large order of approximately 36,000 pounds of chicken, meant to serve around 12,000 families.
Tom McKinney, CEO of Interfaith Community Services, shared, “Not having a chicken or turkey for Christmas feels wrong. We saw many smiles today. People were really happy.”
The need for food support has risen in the community, prompting these organizations to collaborate. Callie Tippett, Executive Director of Greater Vail Community Resources, noted, “Sometimes we run out of protein. This ensures families can access healthy meals.”
Providing whole chickens does more than just offer nutrition; it helps families feel a sense of normalcy during the holidays. Tippett mentioned that these meals allow families to enjoy traditional celebrations, even amid food insecurity.
The shipment of chickens arrived early Tuesday and is being shared among the food banks to reach families across Pima County. Luissel Palma, Program Manager for Marana and Sahuarita Food Banks, emphasized, “While we can’t give everyone a turkey, these whole chickens can really help.”
The initiative represents the power of community support. According to the Feeding America Network, 1 in 8 Americans struggles with hunger, and local efforts like this are crucial in meeting that challenge, especially during the holiday season.
This cooperative effort not only fills plates but also warms hearts, reminding us of the strength that comes from working together.
