Extend the season of giving beyond the holidays
The holiday season may be over, but there are still families who need some extra help. In fact, nationally, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, last year 31 million Americans were either hungry or unsure of their next meal.
You can help some of these families here in Phoenix by donating to food banks, or volunteering your time. I urge you to donate locally to the Paradise Valley Emergency Food Bank at 10862 N. 32nd St., (602) 867-9228. Other food banks in Phoenix include St. Mary's, (602) 352-3640, St. Vincent de Paul, (602) 495-3051, among others.
If you want to volunteer, call the city's Human Services Department Volunteer Program at (602) 261-8806. This department recruits volunteers for its family service and senior centers as well as other programs. Customers range from Head Start pre-schoolers to senior citizens who receive home-delivered meals, serving low-income citizens, youth and families.
Volunteers, both as individuals and groups, can aid in these community efforts. You can distribute food, work in clothing drives, serve as mentors for students and young fathers, provide clerical help, assist in cleanup campaigns and special events. Individuals, groups or companies can assist with a one-time project or an ongoing program. Volunteer skills are matched to job requirements, so the department will match you with the best program for your interests.
Call today to find the right opportunity for you and feel free to contact my office for other opportunities to help in District 2. You are also invited to join me at my monthly Issues & Info breakfasts and learn about topics that impact your neighborhood and family, and take the opportunity to ask questions about issues that are important to you. The next one is 7 a.m. Friday, Jan. 17, at Jillian's at Desert Ridge Marketplace. I'll have special guests to talk about small business issues. I hope to see you there.
Phoenix City Councilwoman Peggy Neely represents District 2, which encompasses most of northeast Phoenix. She can be reached at (602) 262-7445 or via e-mail at council.district.2@phoenix.gov.
