An Effort to Aid the Underserved

With the holidays on the horizon, there is a substantial need of shelf-stable food and personal hygiene products for those experiencing poverty.

Jessica Contreras, a lab manager for the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix’s Department of Translational Neurosciences, recognized this need and decided to make a difference.

Inspired by reading news stories of individuals affected by the government shutdown, Contreras partnered up with NourishPHX to hold a food drive at the U of A College of Medicine – Phoenix’s campus. 

“I felt that I could not just stand by and watch people go hungry without doing anything,” Contreras said. “After much thought, I decided to reach out to see if the Translational Neurosciences Department could work together with the school to give back to the community. 

Throughout the College of Medicine – Phoenix, donation boxes adorned with seasonal decorations are placed around the campus. Staff, students and faculty can place items in the box for them to be delivered to NourishPHX through donation drop offs.

Since 1983, NourishPHX has served as a hub of resources, offering food, clothing and other basic needs for low-income families in Phoenix. The organization also offers education and employment assistance. All services are free to the community. 

The food drive is focused on obtaining canned foods and hygiene products. The most needed food items include canned foods, rice, pasta, baby food, peanut butter, oatmeal, applesauce, fruits (dried or canned), nuts and crackers.

Hygiene products such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, oral care products, deodorant, sanitary products, toilet paper, wipes, diapers and detergent are also needed items. 

For Contreras, being able to work with NourishPHX has been a great opportunity to serve those in need. She and a few other members in the lab of James Bibb, PhD, chair of the department, have dropped off the donations several times in order to deliver them before Thanksgiving.

“From my time working here, I have seen the college’s efforts to provide support for those in need,” Contreras said. “I thought it would be a great opportunity to get everyone involved on campus to help the community.”

Donations will be accepted until November 25. If somebody is unable to donate right now or has donated and wants to do more, Contreras suggests volunteering at food banks.

“Due to the circumstances, all local food banks are overwhelmed,” Contreras said. “If you would like to help more, please reach out to any local food banks to volunteer. Regarding NourishPHX, they are currently accepting volunteers.”