COVID-19 Updates from the Community Food Bank

You’ve seen the empty grocery store shelves. You’ve seen how many of our neighbors are suddenly out of work, or have kids out of school. Now imagine the hugely increased need at the Community Food Bank.

The Community Food Bank is on the frontlines of the COVID-19 crisis, working to keep our community safe and healthy while meeting the increasing need for emergency food. They need your help! And if you’re one of the people affected by the crisis, they’re here for you.

Here’s what you should know.

How you can help:

• Donate. The number one best way to make an immediate difference is to donate online. The food bank is already seeing increasing need from our neighbors in Tucson, and resources are stretched thin. Your donation goes directly to emergency groceries for those who need it.
• Volunteer. The food bank urgently needs volunteers to help assemble emergency food boxes. Because many of their regular volunteers are over 60 and need to stay home, the food bank is severely short staffed. If you’re healthy and able, please consider giving up a few hours to help out. Get started by emailing volunteer@communityfoodbank.org.
• Host a virtual food drive—but not a regular one. Please note that the food bank is not encouraging regular food drives right now, because donated food items must be quarantined and disinfected, and transporting and sorting food takes extra staff time and resources. The best way to help is to donate online or host a virtual food drive.

If you need food:

• Note new hours. If you’ve been to the food bank before, you’ll notice changes on your next trip. All Community Food Bank locations have changed their hours in response to the crisis, and some have moved to a drive-through model to reduce person-to-person contact. You can find up-to-date hours for all locations here.
• Apply for SNAP. If you need to apply for SNAP benefits (formerly Food Stamps), the food bank can help. Give them a call at (520) 882-3314 and they’ll walk you through the process, making sure you get as much assistance as possible. You might need to leave a message, but they’ll get back to you.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The food bank is seeing increased need across southern Arizona. Whether you’re newly out of work or otherwise struggling through this crisis, don’t be afraid to reach out—it’s what they’re there for.

For all info and COVID-19 updates on how the Community Food Bank is responding to the coronavirus, visit communityfoodbank.org/covid-19-update