Community Causes

St Mary's Food Bank Alliance

St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance, the world’s first food bank, is a non-sectarian, non-profit organization that alleviates hunger by efficiently gathering and distributing food to sites that serve the hungry. Serving

13 of Arizona’s 15 counties, the organization is committed to volunteerism, building community relationships and improving the quality of life for Arizonans in need.

St. Mary’s Food Bank takes very seriously and with unmatched pride its commitment as a responsible non-profit organization that is accountable to the community it serves. Over five decades, St. Mary’s has tackled the challenge of easing hunger in Arizona through the vision of founder John Van Hengel.

Keeping pace with the incredible upturn in need that has followed the poor economic climate and the huge rise in unemployment and underemployment, the Food Bank will distribute more than 65 million pounds of food in 2008-2009 to meet the needs of the ever-rising number of Arizona’s hungry - providing enough food into the community to provide nearly 300,000 meals per day.

Visit St. Mary’s at www.firstfoodbank.org

Sojourner Center

Since 1977, Sojourner Center has provided shelter and support services to thousands of individuals affected by domestic violence. Through empowerment, families discover hope and have the opportunity to build a new future free from violence.

As the nation’s largest domestic violence shelter, Sojourner Center is a tireless advocate for domestic violence victims and survivors. With the continued support of the community, Sojourner Center can help women and children overcome the impact of domestic violence, one life at a time.

24 Hour Hotline: (602) 244-0089

Visit Sojourner Center at www.sojournercenter.org

Sunshine Acres Children's Home, Mesa AZ

Since 1954, Sunshine Acres has been home to more than 1,600 children whose families’ circumstances prevent them from providing care for their child. Sunshine Acres’ goals is to provide a loving wholesome, Christian home for children separated from their parents and help them establish long-term relationships with stable parental figures, preparing them for success in adult life.

Children are never turned away for financial reasons. Sunshine Acres does not receive government support for the children and though they are donor funded, they do no fundraising or solicitant for themselves. Many friends, businesses, churches and volunteers contribute and host fundraising events on behalf of the home.

Visit Sunshine Acres at www.sunshineacres.org