Cereal drive delivers hunger relief to West Valley families

Local healthcare workers worked to help feed West Valley children this summer, contributing to a network-wide effort by Abrazo Health that collected more than 3,300 pounds of cereal for regional food banks in June.

The donations were part of the organization's annual Healthy Over Hungry Cereal Drive, which aims to provide nutrition to students in the West Valley and surrounding communities who lose access to school-provided breakfasts and lunches during the summer break.

West Valley community food banks frequently experience a surge in demand during this period as families struggle to bridge the seasonal meal gap. Local donations from the drive were distributed to area centers, including the Agua Fria Food & Clothing Bank andSt. Mary’s Food Bank and Paradise Valley Community Food Bank.

"Our team continues to show a deep commitment to the communities we serve," said Larry D’Amico, Abrazo Health Arizona Group Chief Strategy Officer. "Through strong partnerships with local food banks, we are helping ensure families have consistent access to nutritious food during the summer months when the need is greatest."

The initiative was organized as a friendly competition among regional Abrazo Health campuses.

Jerry Brown, director of public relations for St. Mary’s Food Bank, noted that the timing of the donation is critical for local operations as they support West Valley families.

"This cereal will be put to good use making sure kids and other families are fed," Brown said. "Abrazo has done this cereal drive for years, and we thank each team member who made this event so successful."