In the bustling heart of Cave Creek, Arizona, the Foothills Food Bank is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Driven by a relentless commitment to serving the community, this organization is poised to expand its reach and impact, providing a lifeline to those in need. From sorting and packing fresh produce to connecting individuals with vital resources, the Foothills Food Bank is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a more food-secure future.

Empowering the Community, One Meal at a Time

A Beehive of Activity

The Foothills Food Bank is a hive of activity, with volunteers quickly unpacking and sorting boxes of fresh produce, squash, potatoes, peppers, and other essential items. Leigh Zydonik, the executive director, likens the scene to a "beehive," where everyone must move swiftly to ensure the smooth distribution of these vital resources. The food bank serves an expansive region, covering approximately 200 square miles in the northern reaches of Phoenix, northern Maricopa County, and southern Yavapai County, reaching as far as Mayer to the north, Rio Verde to the east, Interstate 17 to the west, and Loop 101 to the south.

Outgrowing the Nest

For the past decade, the Foothills Food Bank has operated out of a converted single-family home, but the time has come for a transformative change. The organization has secured a lease for three acres of land from the town of Cave Creek, and a new 15,000-square-foot building is set to rise on the site. This expansion will triple the food bank's capacity, providing ample space for food sorting, packing, and distribution, as well as a test kitchen, conference space, a client choice pantry, and increased refrigeration and food storage capabilities.

Addressing the Root Causes

The additional space will not only enhance the food bank's operational efficiency but also allow for deeper engagement with the community. Zydonik emphasizes the importance of understanding the individual circumstances of those they serve, recognizing that food insecurity is often intertwined with other challenges. The new facility will provide opportunities to connect clients with resources for rent assistance, transportation, health services, and other areas that could help address the root causes of their struggles.

A Collaborative Effort

The funding for the new facility has been a collaborative effort, with donations and grants from various sources, including estate donations and a significant grant from the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust. In total, the food bank has raised $6.5 million to fund the development, a testament to the community's commitment to supporting this vital resource.

Strengthening the Supply Chain

The Foothills Food Bank's distribution network is a well-oiled machine, with the organization receiving food from more than 30 stores in the area through its grocery rescue program. This partnership ensures a steady supply of fresh produce, shelf-stable items, and other essential goods, which are then distributed to those in need throughout the region.

Reaching the Hidden Needs

Despite the affluence of the surrounding communities, the Foothills Food Bank has identified a significant need for its services. Approximately 14% of the people living within the food bank's service area are food insecure, including many elderly individuals who have depleted their savings and remain on fixed incomes. Zydonik emphasizes the importance of addressing the "hidden need" in the Cave Creek and Carefree area, where the food bank's services are vital in supporting the working poor and seniors.

Expanding the Reach

While the new facility will not expand the Foothills Food Bank's service area, it will allow the organization to deepen its impact within the region. In 2023, the food bank collected 1.83 million pounds of food, providing approximately 788,000 meals to those in need. With the increased capacity and resources, the food bank aims to reach more individuals and families, ensuring that no one in the community is left behind.