At the beginning of Covid, my husband and I saw a story on our local news station with a call for volunteers to St. Mary’s Food Bank. We decided that we could help out and packed emergency food boxes for the first time. We enjoyed our experience that we have been volunteering ever since.
St. Mary’s Food Bank, located in Phoenix, Arizona, is renowned as the world’s first food bank, with a history dating back more than five decades. Its pioneering model has not only changed how communities tackle hunger but has also inspired similar programs throughout the United States and beyond. From its humble beginnings, St. Mary’s Food Bank has become a prime force in fighting food insecurity and supporting thousands of families annually through a mix of local partnerships and efficient food distribution systems.
History of St. Mary’s Food Bank
The story began in 1967 when John van Hengel, moved by conversations with families struggling for their next meal, envisioned a “food bank” that would collect surplus from grocers and distribute it to those in need. After receiving a $3,000 donation and a building from St. Mary’s Basilica, van Hengel launched the food bank, naming it in honor of its benefactor. In its first year, the organization distributed more than 250,000 pounds of food. The concept quickly gained traction, shaping the foundation for food banks nationally and inspiring both the Feeding America network and the Global Food Banking Network
Impact on the Community
St. Mary’s Food Bank annually provides millions of meals to Arizonans facing food insecurity, leveraging donations and volunteer support to reach children, seniors, and families. With hundreds of partner agencies—including food pantries, shelters, afterschool programs, and senior centers—the food bank ensures donated resources go directly to those who need them most. Volunteers contribute over 140,000 hours each year, helping sort, pack, and distribute food boxes, and adapting quickly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. The food bank’s ability to turn every dollar donated into five meals demonstrates its efficient, impactful approach to serving the community.
How to Get Involved
There are several ways to support St. Mary’s Food Bank’s mission. Individuals and groups can:
- Volunteer by signing up to pack boxes, distribute food, or assist at mobile events; volunteers must be at least 12 years old with adult supervision, or 16 to volunteer independently
- Donate funds online, where every dollar helps provide multiple meals
- Host a food drive, rallying friends, family, or coworkers to collect and deliver shelf-stable foods and other essentials to the food bank
As a realtor dedicated to the Phoenix community, I believe in not just finding homes, but in supporting the people that live here.
Since the start of Covid, I have been organizing groups to pack food boxes and being a part of their Turkey Distribution.
