Wrapping up 2024, United Food Bank worked tirelessly across Arizona to ensure no one was left behind during the holiday season.
On December 20, United Food Bank hosted its annual large holiday distributions at the Mesa Convention Center. The first household arrived at 3 a.m., hours before sunrise, driven by the hope of providing a meaningful holiday meal for their loved ones. With the help of our generous volunteers, United Food Bank distributed 116,524 pounds of food to 1,345 Arizona households in just four hours.
Making a special appearance, Santa Claus and the Grinch arrived at the Mesa Convention Center, adding a touch of festive magic to the festivities. But don’t worry! While the Grinch may be famous for his attempts to steal Christmas, this time, he joined Santa in distributing food to neighbors, such as potatoes, milk, fresh produce and ham. This unlikely duo also helped warm up the cold morning by sharing their contagious laughs and smiles with neighbors, staff and volunteers alike.
Among the many neighbors served was longtime Mesa resident Martin. Originally from Sonora, Mexico, in 1993, Martin moved him and his family to the United States to help build a better life for himself. Now, as a father and grandfather, he currently works in construction and does installations. The past year, however, has been difficult for him and his family because work has been scarce. As a result, he has difficulty keeping up with bills and providing for his growing family.
As he approached the convention center, Martin revealed that he was stressed about providing for his family and making Christmas special for them. He is deeply grateful for the incredible opportunity to receive food from the United Food Bank during this challenging time.
“It means less stress for this season, you know. This season has to be a joyful season, not a stressful one,” said Martin. “And for some people, they’re struggling with bad times, their job or their health. It’s a big help to have something to share with your family and your loved ones.”
Despite the hardships he has recently overcome, Martin radiated humility and positivity as he shared his story. His personal goal for Christmas is to remind others what the true meaning of the holidays is all about. For him, the holidays aren’t about material gifts but about spending meaningful time with your loved ones.
“Time is the only thing we have. You never know when your time is up,” reflected Martin. “Nobody is going to remember what you give; it is about the thought and time put in that really counts.”
Martin’s story is a powerful reminder of what the holidays are truly about. Beyond the busyness of the season, the elaborate gifts and shiny decorations, the essence of the season lies in the time we spend with those we cherish.
“I am grateful for the intention of people to share love, you know, to make this a special time and try to let everybody know about the season and what it means.”
As we bid farewell to 2024 and welcome 2025 with open hearts, the team at United Food Bank looks forward to continuing its mission of feeding Arizona into the new year. Stories from neighbors like Martin remind us that the most valuable gift we can give is our time and care. Through continued generosity and support from our community, we can ensure no one is left behind.
We want to give a special shoutout to IES Communications, Boeing and Whataburger for your tremendous support in making this event happen! To help us continue our mission throughout the year, visit us at www.unitedfoodbank.org/donate
