Feed, Clothe, and Empower: Paz de Cristo
“It all starts with a nutritious meal, a hot shower, and clean clothes,” states the mission of Paz de Cristo, a partner agency of United Food Bank. For 365 days a year, rain or shine, Paz de Cristo serves not only hot dinners but also a comprehensive array of resources and services to those in need. From mental health support to job referrals, from hygiene services to clothing, Paz de Cristo operates as an essential resource to the densely populated Mesa community.
At Paz de Cristo, dignity and respect are paramount. Their dinner service resembles that of a restaurant, where guests are seated after checking in, and hot dinners are served with care. Each guest receives two meals – one served and one to go – ensuring that their nutritional needs are supported even beyond the walls of the organization. On top of this, they also host a food box distribution for the general public on all but the last Tuesday of every month from 10 AM to 12 PM. Adapting to the community’s ever-changing needs, Paz de Cristo implemented a drive-through system for these distributions, demonstrating their commitment to innovation and accessibility. This forward-thinking approach ensures that those in need can access nutritious meals with ease.
From pazdecristo.org
Moreover, Paz de Cristo’s commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness is evident in its grocery rescue program. Any surplus food that doesn’t go towards meal services is redirected to food boxes, ensuring that no resource goes to waste and that individuals and families have access to essential groceries.
“United Food Bank is filling the need for sure,” mentions Director of Food Services John Farley. “Their emergency food bags help us reach more people outside our regular meal service and with a grant we receive, our staff members can get an education on things that will benefit Paz as a whole.”
Another one of Paz de Cristo’s unique offerings is its weekly free showers, offered on Wednesday mornings from 10 AM to 2 PM October through February and 8 AM to 12 PM March through September. “The transformation after a shower is amazing, a person looks like they are ready to take on anything after they come out, and that empowerment is important,” says John during a tour. “We are receiving a new shower facility with 6 showers so we can serve more people in the same amount of time.” After a shower, a person receives new socks, underwear, and can pick up clothes if needed. “While most clothes are donated, we buy new clothes for our Christmas distributions, but the socks and underwear are always new, with the help of partnerships like Bombas Socks.”
Outside of United Food Bank and a few other food-related partnerships, Paz de Cristo partners with a variety of organizations that help with job searches, identification requests, free haircuts, and medical services. “You don’t know what program is going to help who, but as long as it impacts and supports one person we serve, it’s worth it,” says John. Whether it’s partnering with medical organizations through Circle of the City or offering SNAP training and haircuts, Paz de Cristo is dedicated to addressing the diverse needs of the community.
In a world where mental health issues are prevalent, Paz de Cristo recognizes the importance of addressing this challenge. By providing holistic support and fostering a sense of community, they strive to uplift and empower individuals, helping them navigate their journey toward stability and well-being. Paz de Cristo’s dedication to serving the community knows no bounds. From drive-through distributions to culinary creations, they go above and beyond to ensure that no one is left behind. See what their facilities look like below!
To support Paz de Cristo as they continue to expand their reach and services, feel free to visit https://pazdecristo.org/ways-to-give/. United Food Bank is proud to partner with over 120 different organizations and programs to sustainably increase food security in Arizona. For ways to take part in alleviating hunger in your community, check out unitedfoodbank.org/donate/.
Written by KC Raguay
