In Arizona, 1 in 7 residents face a hunger crisis1. In the United States alone, 30-40% of all food produced is thrown away, which accounts for 130 billion meals annually2. 

There is a vast opportunity for excess food redistribution from food manufacturers/distributors to redirect good, edible food from becoming waste, to reach nonprofits that could continue to feed and serve communities in need. 

By demystifying the language behind donation liability protection laws, AZ state tax credits and deductions, date labeling practices, and understanding stakeholder communication, scheduling, space, and logistical requirements in the form of an information packet that is universal to food-based stakeholders in the Valley, the goal is to stregthen the food recovery network, and forge partnerships between the private and nonprofit sectors with support from the public sector. 

We support the 2030 Phoenix Food Action Plan, specifically action items 1.4, 4.3, 5.4, 6.3, 7.2, and 9.2.

Water is essential to life, and access to it should never depend on circumstance. Supporting communities with safe drinking water is both a practical need and an act of respect. In Ganado, Arizona, within the Navajo Nation, families continue to face challenges related to reliable water access, making community-driven support especially meaningful. 

Through coordinated volunteer efforts, Young Adults with Intercity Service Coalition transported and distributed thousands of bottles of water directly to families in need. Beyond the logistics of delivery, the project emphasized presence, care, and direct engagement with the community during distribution. 

This initiative reflects a simple idea: service is not only about providing resources, but about doing so in a way that recognizes dignity, builds trust, and centers the needs of the people being served. 

Looking ahead, the team is also preparing future initiatives, including upcoming hygiene kit distributions to further support everyday health and wellness in the community.