How St. Mary’s Food Bank is Nourishing Minds, Hearts, and Souls this Summer
PHOENIX — As the school bells ring to signal summer vacation, the need for nourishment doesn’t fade for many students across the Valley. In fact, the demand for meals often increases, making the tireless efforts of St. Mary’s Food Bank more crucial than ever.
A Lifeline for Summer Hunger
Every summer, St. Mary’s Food Bank launches its annual Summer Feeding Program, aiming to bridge the gap left when schools close their doors. This essential initiative serves approximately 6,000 meals every day at 120 sites, directly benefiting local students and families in need.
Recently, ABC15’s Nick Ciletti visited GateWay Community College in Phoenix to unveil the impact of their ACE Program—a remarkable avenue enabling students to earn college credits for free while receiving complimentary breakfast and lunch.
The ACE Program: Empowering Future Leaders
ACE, which stands for Achieving a College Education, is a game-changer for many Valley high school students. It caters particularly to individuals who are first-generation college attendees or face significant challenges in their educational journeys. The program’s aspiration is clear: support students in earning 24 college credits before they even toss their high school graduation caps into the air.
Leah Smith-Thompson, a dedicated instructor, highlights the transformative power of this initiative: "Most of our students are first-generation college students; it’s the first time anyone in their family has stepped onto a college campus. It really opens the door for them to see that anyone can go to college."
Healthy Minds, Full Bellies
But the ACE Program is about more than just academics; it’s about holistic nourishment. Each day, students are treated to healthy breakfasts and lunches, thanks to St. Mary’s Food Bank.
Afna, a senior participating in her second year of the ACE Program, elaborates on the difference it makes: "I think it really helps to start stimulating the brain. You can’t focus when you’re tired or hungry." With meals guaranteed, she expresses relief: "Sometimes, I forget to eat breakfast, but here, I know I can rely on having breakfast and lunch."
Community Spirit Driving Success
For students like Sahra and Andrew, the program’s impact extends beyond meals. With aspirations in the medical field and the U.S. Marines, knowing their community cares provides them with motivation and hope.
"I feel really lucky because many people don’t get this opportunity," says Sahra. Meanwhile, Andrew, who dreams of being the first in his family to earn a college degree, shares, "It would mean all my hard work paid off."
Jaretzi Pioquinto, an aspiring doctor, echoes this sentiment: "There are many mornings when I can’t have breakfast because I’m in a rush. I’m grateful for the food and all the opportunities given to me."
Get Involved: Make a Difference
Would you like to join the cause and help combat summer hunger? St. Mary’s Food Bank is actively seeking volunteers for its Summer Feeding Program. Click here to discover how you can contribute.
Furthermore, if you’re interested in learning about the ACE Program at GateWay, or wish to enroll, donate, or volunteer, click here for more information.
By investing in our youth today, we’re building a better future for all. Join St. Mary’s Food Bank and help shape the lives of those who will one day shape our world.
