A Volunteer Spills the Beans About Food Banks

A volunteer at a local food bank shares what it's like to work alongside staff and the people they serve.

Most food banks in our area are connected to a central food bank system which is organized, efficient, and computerized. Recipients register once, so there's a record of membership and usage. The only requirement is that they live in Pima County.

Volunteers check IDs, pack boxes, and deliver them to cars. They answer questions and, when needed, point people toward other community resources. Some volunteers from partner groups deliver directly to homebound residents. Boxes are sized to the family — and sometimes include extras like pet food or diapers. The food itself comes from a mix of sources: the Central Food Bank, local business surpluses, food drives, and, still, the federal government.

Lately, the volunteers have watched the need grow. Car counts have roughly doubled — now about 100 in a three-hour shift. Families are larger, and more grandparents are raising grandchildren. One bright spot: more fresh produce, and better quality, than in years past.

So what keeps one volunteer coming back after more than 15 years? "There is reciprocal kindness and respect between the volunteers and the recipients. The system is not abused, and politics are not evident on either side."

Then there are the stories of people who never imagined needing a food bank, people choosing between food and medicine, people who have less, and less, and less. What they find here isn't just groceries. It's a moment of dignity, a human connection, and a little security in uncertain times, which everyone hopes will be temporary.