TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Grocery prices are higher than ever, leaving many Tucson residents in precarious situations where they can’t afford the necessities, but one local organization is working to meet that need head-on.
With transportation challenges at the forefront of mind, Interfaith Community Services’ (ICS) 12th mobile food bank location will deliver food to a wider community.
Jacqueline Aguilar | KGUN 9
Area resident Sharon Warrior Barkley stopped by and picked up two neighbors who didn’t have transportation.
“It’s great because you can drive through and it’s close to the neighborhood,” Warrior Barkley said.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food prices have risen by about 6% in 2023. ICS provided canned goods, produce and meat to 32 households today.
On the third Wednesday of each month, ICS meets from 8:30am to 9:30am outside Grace Temple Missionary Baptist Church.
Jacqueline Aguilar | KGUN 9
The nonprofit organization currently serves people at the Goodwill of Southern Arizona just a mile away on the third Thursday of each month, but hopes to reach new groups of people in the 85713 zip code.
“We looked at the demographic maps and we saw that the need in this area was in the poor,” said Brandon “B-Love” Miller, ICS mobile food pantry coordinator, “so we wanted to basically fill that need.”
Jacqueline Aguilar | KGUN 9
Warrior Barkley used to go to a local food bank, but over time the distance became an issue.
“I have severe mobility issues and I use a riding cart, so if I had to go far to get to the food bank, it wouldn’t be possible,” she said.
ICS wants anyone in need of food to stop by, whether they’re in a car or on foot.
“There’s no restrictions. They’ve given me the go-ahead to say, ‘Hey, just bring the truck back empty if you can. That’s what I’ll be rewarded for. You get something, you get something, you get something.’ As long as I get it back empty I know I’ve done my part,” Miller said.
Find out more about ICS’ other mobile food bank sites here
Jacqueline Aguilar | KGUN 9
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Jacqueline Aguilar is a multimedia journalist for KGUN 9. Born and raised in Yuma, Arizona, she’s used to the oppressive Arizona heat. A University of Arizona Wildcat, she’s excited to be back in Tucson and looks forward to getting involved in the community. To share your story ideas with Jacqueline, email her at jacqueline.aguilar@kgun9.com or find her on Facebook, Instagram, or Instagram. X.
