Relieving Holiday Stress, One Meal Kit at a Time

For many families, the holiday season brings added financial burdens, turning what should be a time of joy into one of stress. Midwest Food Bank Arizona's 3rd Annual Holiday Meal Kits program is determined to ease that burden. With a goal to distribute 3,000 meal kits by the end of the year, the program ensures that families in need can enjoy a complete holiday meal.

Each meal kit contains ingredients for a traditional holiday dinner, packed with care by volunteers and supported by community donations. Advisory Board Member and CDL driver Brandon Letner, who champions the program, reflects on its importance:

"There is a line in Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' when the two gentlemen are endeavoring to raise money for the poor. The one says, 'We choose this time because it is a time, of all others, when Want is keenly felt and Abundance rejoices.' When I was in college to become an EMT, I learned that the suicide rate is highest during the holidays because people are stressed about the extra money that is needed to pay for gifts and meals while also paying their regular bills. If we can provide a small meal, we can relieve someone's burden enough to know they can get through another day.

We invite community members to join this mission of kindness in several ways:

1. Pack at Home: Take an empty box and fill it with items from the recommended shopping list provided on the label.
2. Volunteer at an Event: Help package kits with donated food items.
3. Donate: A $75 contribution allows Midwest Food Bank Arizona to pack and deliver a complete meal kit on your behalf.

Sponsored by State 48 Roofing, this initiative reflects the power of community partnerships in bringing relief to families in need.

By participating, you're not just providing food but spreading hope. Visit Midwest Food Bank Arizona to donate, volunteer, or learn more. Together, we can ensure no family goes hungry this holiday season.