Beefing Up Hope: Arizona Beef Council Joins St. Mary’s Food Bank for Thanksgiving Giving
Tiffany Selchow | January 17, 2025
The ABC team and volunteers spent the day assisting in packing food boxes that would be distributed to families in need across the state. Together, this hardworking group packed 1,350 food boxes making a significant impact by contributing to the food bank’s goal of reaching as many individuals as possible during this critical time of year.
A group of 13 volunteers joined the effort, and their contributions were invaluable. We would like to recognize the following individuals for their generosity and hard work: Ashley Chambers, Arizona Families for Vaccines; Clint Gladden, dairy farmer, Beef Council board member; Hannah Varnell, Heritage Vet Partners; Ann Henderson, Arizona State Cowbelles; Arizona Farm Bureau staff Licia Allen, Brittney Morse, Katie Aikins, Alicia Guiterrez, Sandy McNutt, and Chad Smith; Lauren Maehling and Tiffany Selchow, Arizona Beef Council.
In addition to volunteer efforts, the Arizona Beef Council has supported St. Mary’s Food Bank in past campaigns through the creation and sale of custom t-shirts in partnership with State Forty Eight. Proceeds from these sales were donated directly to the food bank, specifically earmarked for the purchase of beef to help provide high-quality protein to those in need. These campaigns have been another way for ABC to extend its mission of promoting beef while giving back to the community.
St. Mary’s Food Bank, established in 1967, is not only one of the nation’s largest food banks but also a pioneer in the fight against hunger. Their programs reach thousands of families each year, providing much-needed assistance through food distributions, school meal programs, and partnerships with local organizations. This Thanksgiving season alone, they aimed to distribute millions of meals, a feat made possible through the help of dedicated volunteers and supporters.
As the day came to a close, the group reflected on the impact of their work. The volunteers left with a sense of fulfillment, knowing they had contributed to a cause larger than themselves. One participant summed it up perfectly: “This experience reminds us of how much good can be accomplished when we come together. It’s not just about the food we’re distributing; it’s about the hope and care we’re sharing with our neighbors.”
The Arizona Beef Council extends its heartfelt gratitude to St. Mary’s Food Bank for their ongoing work to fight hunger and to the volunteers who gave their time to support this important cause. Together, we can build stronger communities, one meal at a time.