In a heartwarming display of community solidarity, United Food Bank has welcomed 23 new members to its inaugural Million Meals Club! In celebration of its 40th anniversary, United Food Bank is recognizing these benevolent entities that have each donated the monetary equivalent of at least one million meals in their lifetime of giving, underscoring the power of collective action in increasing food insecurity in Arizona.
United Food Bank, a vital pillar in alleviating hunger, serves individuals and families facing food insecurity across Arizona communities. Its mission, uniting communities to alleviate hunger, is made possible through the generosity and support of individuals and organizations alike. “Because of our large-scale food purchasing power and the donated food we receive from grocery stores and food drives, we are able to distribute enough food for five meals with every dollar donated,” says Benito Ontiveros, Director of Operations at United Food Bank.
The contributions of these new members highlight the profound difference that can be made when businesses and nonprofits unite for a common cause. Each donation, whether big or small, has played a crucial role in alleviating hunger and supporting families in achieving food security.
“Thank you so much, you guys do all the hard work, we’re just there to support you, and we hope to be able to do it again,” says a representative from the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation. “Well, you make a huge impact while winning games!” responds Melissa Nelson, Senior Manager or Corporate Partnerships at United Food Bank.
From local organizations to multinational corporations, the members involved have demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility and community welfare. Their contributions extend beyond monetary value, and this collective effort serves as a testament to the belief that no one should go hungry. By joining forces, these members have amplified their impact and created a ripple effect of positivity throughout the community.
“We started something together and it’s growing bigger and stronger,” shared a representative from Cigna’s Healthier Kids for Our Future Initiative. The significance of this milestone goes beyond the numbers; it symbolizes hope, solidarity, and the transformative power of generosity. With every meal donated, lives are touched, families are sustained, and communities are strengthened.
Everyone was excited to receive a special award recognizing their achievement. “I’m going to wear it as a medallion,” said one person from Waymo. As the community celebrates the remarkable achievement of these 23 members, the need is ongoing to increase food security in Arizona and support organizations like United Food Bank. Together, we can continue to make a difference and build a future where no one goes to bed hungry.
See a full list of the members below! To join United Food Bank’s mission to alleviate hunger, become a monthly donor here!
Million Meals Club Members
Albertsons Safeway Foundation
Arizona Public Service
Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation
Arizona Food Bank Network
Bank of America
Bashas’ Family of Stores, AJ’s Fine Foods
Cardinals Charities
City of Mesa
Desert Financial Credit Union
Fry’s Food Stores
Google.org
Just-In Time Moving & Storage
Mesa United Way
Salt River Project
Santander Consumer USA Foundation
Season for Sharing
The Boeing Company
The Cigna Group Foundation
The Light the World Giving Machines sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Thunderbirds Charities
USAA Foundation
Valley of the Sun United Way
Wells Fargo Foundation
Written by KC Raguay
