The holidays are officially upon us! It’s so easy to get wrapped up in exchanging gifts, attending festive events, and all of the excitement that comes with the season. But, we know that there are so many people in our communities who find themselves in need. 1 in 8 people in Arizona are facing food insecurity, and 1 of 6 children! We take this very seriously and are committed to helping others whenever possible, especially if it means bringing some joy and removing burdens for others during the holidays. If you’re like us, and looking for ways to get involved this year, we’re sharing our 3 favorite organizations!
1. The Harvest Compassion Center – Phoenix, AZ (multiple locations).
This facility classifies itself as ‘Food Banking Reimagined,’ and offers 3 locations in the valley. Their concept ensures a one-stop “mini-mart” shopping experience where guests can come and get food items, clothing, and hygiene items. There is even a play corner for the kids who visit! Our team has been fortunate enough to volunteer here many times over the years. Each time, we are in awe of the amazing people we are able to meet and interact with while serving. Click here for information on becoming a volunteer. At Christmas time, Santa even stops by to visit with children and make their day!
The HCC makes it easy to contribute donations - Check out the best items to donate here. During the holiday season, the center also accepts donations of un-wrapped Christmas gifts for children. They accept toys, books, gift cards, and more for children of all ages. You can find donation times for each location here.
Earlier this year, we partnered with HCC for the Cloth and Flame dinner as a charitable recipient for the event. We had so much fun having Paul and Nicolee there with us, and were thrilled to be able to spotlight their organization a bit through the event. Each fall, HCC hosts a fundraising run where you can run as an individual or as part of a team. We participated this year and had a blast!
2. Strawberry Food Bank – Strawberry, AZ
During the Backbone fire in Summer 2021, you all stepped up massively and helped us collect food for the Strawberry Food Bank. Your generosity was beyond inspiring! If you'd like to continue to support the Pine Strawberry Food Bank's efforts, you can always collect canned and non-perishable food to hand deliver to them if you are in the area - or, if you are not local, you can send a check directly to them at the address below:
Pine-Strawberry Food Bank
3886 AZ SR 87
Pine AZ 85544
3. Mountain Village Foundation – Pine, AZ
MVF is a volunteer led organization in Rim Country that raises funds to support programs for children in Pine and Strawberry as well as emergency needs of families and individuals in both communities.
Each year, they host a toy drive and our team loves to donate items to make the local children's season merry and bright. This year, they need new unwrapped gifts such as games, sporting goods, and gift cards for the ages of 12-18 years old. You can drop off a donation in person, or you can send a monetary donation to PO Box 715, Pine, AZ 85544 and they will do the shopping for you!
We hope you will give back in whatever way you can this season, or in the new year to come. Thank you for supporting both of our communities!
-Carson & Amber
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