The world’s first food bank is now the first food bank to turn 50 years old. St. Mary’s Food Bank will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2017-18, giving the public may ways to salute the guiding vision of founder John Van Hengel .
The fun begins in September with Hunger Action Month presented by Arby’s. It’s 30 ways in 30 days when you can help end hunger in Arizona though actions and donations of food, funds and time. Arby’s will join companies like U-Haul, the Arizona Ford Dealers, Charles Schwab, Oregano’s, the Phoenix Mercury, the Arizona Diamondbacks, Makutu’s Island and Castles & Coasters in offering unique ways to spur public action. St. Mary’s will have an extend display of historical items and storytelling at the Arizona State Capitol Building in September and release a video chronicling its first 50 year and how Van Hengel’s vision of feeding Arizona and the world has blossomed.
Also in September, St. Mary’s will distribute its one BILLIONTH meal to the hungry of Arizona, signified by a special singular emergency food box packed by specially selected volunteers.
For more information on Hunger Action Month and how you can get involved, check out www.firstfoodbank.org/hungeractionmonth and the 30 ways in 30 days to fight hunger.