In its continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic, The Salvation Army Metro Phoenix will team with Fresh Bite Foods to distribute 500 free USDA food boxes of produce and dairy products to families in need from 8-10 a.m. today or until supplies are gone.

Families can visit the unpaved east lot of The Salvation Army Herberger Campus, 2707 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix.

Anyone in need of an emergency food box can come to this drive-thru, no-touch distribution, on a first-come, first-served basis, with each family limited to one box of dairy and produce.

“We are truly blessed by this generous gift from Fresh Bite Foods to support our neighbors in need,” stated Major David Yardley, The Salvation Army Metro Phoenix Program Coordinator. “Right now, many families don’t know where their next meal is coming from, and we are proud to partner with Fresh Bite Foods to help people put food on the table. This is just another example of our community banding together during these uncertain times.”

Friday’s food box distribution event is part of National Salvation Army Week, which continues through May 17. National Salvation Army Week is observed annually immediately following Mother’s Day and was first declared by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954 — 74 years after The Salvation Army arrived in the U.S. In his speech, President Eisenhower noted:

“Among Americans, The Salvation Army has long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of human brotherhood. In time of war, the men and women of this organization have brought to those serving their country far from home, friendliness and warm concern. In the quieter days of peace, their work has been a constant reminder to us all that each of us is neighbor and kin to all Americans. Giving freely of themselves, the men and women of The Salvation Army have won the respect of us all.”

The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services has been on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic, serving the most vulnerable neighbors with vital food, shelter, household goods, rent and utilities assistance, and more. The Salvation Army Southwest Division’s COVID-19 response has aided more than 100,000 people since March 16, according to a release.

“We are excited for the opportunity to be a critical piece of the supply chain, giving American farmers a way to distribute their fresh products directly to families who need them most,” stated Mike Wilson, Strategy Manager of Fresh Bite Foods.