Category

Community News

From Yom Kippur to Mitzvah Money Monday: Turning Reflection Into Action

By Community News, Holidays

Yom Kippur is a day of reflection, repentance, and renewal. It gives us an opportunity to pause, look inward, and think about the kind of people we want to be—not only in our words and intentions, but in the actions we take throughout the year.

One of the most meaningful ways to carry the spirit of Yom Kippur forward is through mitzvot: acts of kindness, generosity, and responsibility toward others.

That is the idea behind Mitzvah Money Monday.

Make Monday a Day of Giving

Imagine if every Monday became a small opportunity to make a difference.

Whether it is $5, $10, $18, or whatever you are able to give, consider setting aside money each Monday to support the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry. And giving does not have to mean money alone. Donating nonperishable food can also help provide meaningful support to people and families in need.

The amount isn’t the point. The habit is.

By making giving part of our weekly routine, we turn a once-a-year moment of reflection into an ongoing commitment to kindness.

Give With Intention

Yom Kippur asks us to think about how we treat other people and how we can do better. Mitzvah Money Monday offers a simple way to put those thoughts into practice.

Set a reminder. Put a few dollars aside. Pick up an extra item or two at the grocery store. Encourage your family to participate. Invite a friend to join you.

Small acts, repeated consistently, can become something much bigger.

Support the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry

This year, consider making a personal commitment:

Every Monday, I will do one small act of giving to support the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry.

It might be a monetary donation. It might be food. It might be both.

What matters is taking that first step—and then making it a habit.

Yom Kippur reminds us that we always have the opportunity to reflect, change, and begin again. Let Mitzvah Money Monday be one way we carry that spirit with us long after the fast is over.

Give a little. Give regularly. Give with purpose.

Make Monday your mitzvah day.

Mitzvah Money Monday: One day. One mitzvah. Every week

September 18, 2026
Love0

Even Through the Construction, the Mission Continues

By Community News

As the parking lot is being ripped up and pipes are bursting out onto the floor, the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry continues operating in full swing. Construction may have slowed operations down and presented a few unexpected challenges, but this does not hinder our commitment to serving the community.

Every day, our volunteers and staff continue packing groceries, preparing meals, and making sure that individuals and families facing food insecurity receive the support they need. The work does not stop because of a little dust, noise, or a few unexpected plumbing surprises. In fact, moments like these remind us exactly why this mission matters.

Amid all the demolition and construction, we accept patrons in a different fashion. Usually, our customers are physically welcomed in and collect food, bringing it back to their cars. However, now that the lot is undergoing repairs, we have clients staying in their cars in a neighboring parking lot. They call to let us know they are picking up food or we see them driving up and greet them at their cars. We bring the food and water to their cars and help load up. We are sure to exchange a few kind words with our customers before sending them off on their way.

What has been truly incredible is seeing how many people want to step forward and support this cause. From volunteers giving their time, to donors giving generously to community members spreading the word, the outpouring of support has shown us what is possible when people come together.

The parking lot might be inaccessible, but the heart of the pantry is stronger than ever. We are grateful for everyone who has helped us reach this point, and we invite you to be part of the next chapter as we work toward creating a permanent home for hunger relief in our community.

The Arizona Kosher Food Pantry is also known as Ezras Cholim. We share the same 501(c)(3) number, and donations made to the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry are tax deductible. Our Arizona QCO number is through Ezras Cholim. You can donate up to $495 for a single filer or $987 for a married couple. The QCO number is 22071, Ezras Cholim of Arizona.

June 4, 2026
Love0
Flyer for the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry Shabbos Chicken Fundraiser

Shabbos Chicken Fundraiser

By Community News, Events

 

The Arizona Kosher Pantry is excited to offer our Shabbos Chicken Fundraiser, helping families enjoy delicious, fully cooked rotisserie chickens while supporting an important community cause. Chickens are available for $7.99 per pound, and all proceeds help support Tomchei Shabbat programs. This is a wonderful way to prepare for Shabbos while making a meaningful difference in our community. To place an order, please call (602) 492-4989.

June 4, 2026
Love0

Chesed Night – Thank you

By Community News, Events

We want to take a moment to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who came out and supported Chesed Night. Because of your presence, generosity, and encouragement, the evening was not only successful—it was truly meaningful in every sense of the word.

Events like this are never just about one night. They are about the hearts that show up, the hands that give, and the community that chooses to stand together in kindness. Seeing so many people come together in support of chesed reminded us that when we unite with a shared purpose, we can create something far greater than any one of us could do alone.

Your support—whether through attending, contributing, volunteering, or simply spreading the word—helped make the night what it was. Every conversation, every smile, every donation, and every moment of participation added to the warmth and success of the evening.

We are especially grateful to those who worked behind the scenes to help organize, set up, and ensure everything ran smoothly. Your time and effort do not go unnoticed, and they are deeply appreciated.

Most of all, thank you for believing in the mission of chesed and for showing up for our community in such a real and powerful way. It is because of supporters like you that we are able to continue building, giving, and strengthening the work ahead.

We are looking forward to many more opportunities to come together in the future. Until then, please know how much your support means and how deeply it is valued.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Laura and Nina

May 14, 2026
Love0

The Month of Healing

By About the Pantry & Organization, Community News

During the Hebrew month of Iyar, we are reminded of one of its deepest themes: healing. Even as the month begins to draw to a close, its message continues to resonate in meaningful ways.

Each of us has a unique place in this world where we can bring healing, kindness, and light to others. Your support of the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry is a beautiful expression of that mission. Through your generosity and compassion, you are helping bring comfort, dignity, nourishment, and hope into people’s lives.

In Jewish tradition, healing is not only physical. It can also mean easing worry, restoring hope, strengthening community, and reminding someone that they are not alone. Every act of giving has the power to uplift another person in ways we may never fully see.

As we complete these final days of Iyar, may we continue to carry its message forward — choosing kindness, generosity, and care for one another.

May you and your families be blessed with health, happiness, and all forms of goodness.

 

May 14, 2026
Love0

Kosher Chickens for Shabbos

By About the Pantry & Organization, Arizona Kosher Food Pantry, Community News, Community support, Events

Fresh for Shabbos: Order Your Chicken from the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry

Preparing for Shabbos is always a special time—filled with tradition, family, and of course, a delicious meal at the center of it all. The Arizona Kosher Food Pantry is here to make that preparation a little easier (and tastier!) with their fresh Shabbos chickens.

איכות, Convenience, and Flavor

The pantry is offering high-quality chickens for just $7.99 per pound—a great value for families looking to serve something both meaningful and delicious. These chickens are known for their freshness and flavor, making them a perfect centerpiece for your Shabbos table. Whether you roast them with classic herbs or prepare a favorite family recipe, you can count on a meal everyone will enjoy.

Don’t Miss the Deadline

To ensure your chicken is ready in time for Shabbos, all orders must be placed by the end of the day on Wednesday. Planning ahead means one less thing to worry about as you get ready for the weekend.

How to Order

Placing your order is simple:

Be sure to include your name, order details, and any questions you may have.

Supporting a Greater Mission

When you purchase from the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry, you’re doing more than preparing a wonderful Shabbos meal—you’re also supporting a vital community resource that helps provide food to those in need.

Make your Shabbos both meaningful and delicious this week. Order your chicken today—you won’t be disappointed!

March 24, 2026
Love0

Drive Change – Give Hope

By Community News

Drive Change: Volunteer to Deliver Meals and Hope

Every day, individuals and families in hospitals rely on the kindness of others for something as simple—and meaningful—as a warm meal. Behind every meal delivered is a team of caring volunteers who make it all possible. Today, we are inviting you to be part of that mission.

Why Volunteer as a Driver?

Our driver volunteers play a critical role in bridging the gap between generous food donors and those in need. By picking up donated food and delivering meals to hospitals, you help ensure that no donation goes to waste and no patient or family goes without nourishment and support during a difficult time.

This is more than just a delivery—it’s an act of compassion that brings comfort, dignity, and hope.

With or Without a Truck—You Can Help

Whether you have a truck, SUV, or standard vehicle, there is a place for you on our team:

  • Drivers with trucks or larger vehicles can assist with picking up bulk donations from local businesses and transporting larger quantities of food.

  • Drivers with cars or smaller vehicles can help deliver prepared meals directly to hospitals and families, ensuring timely and efficient distribution.

No matter what you drive, your time and effort make a real difference.

Flexible and Meaningful Service

We understand that life is busy, which is why our volunteer opportunities are flexible. Whether you can help once a week, once a month, or on an as-needed basis, your contribution matters. Even a single delivery can brighten someone’s day.

Be the Reason Someone Smiles

Imagine the impact of arriving with a meal for someone who has been sitting beside a loved one in a hospital room for hours or days. Your presence alone can bring comfort—your delivery brings relief.

Join Us

If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community, we encourage you to volunteer as a driver. Together, we can turn generosity into action and ensure that every donation reaches those who need it most.

Sign up today and help us deliver more than meals—help us deliver care.

March 14, 2026
Love0
A box of fresh peaches donated to the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry

Trucks, Food Donation Sites, and Citrus?

By Community News


Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry is almost fully funded for the truck that will help us pick up and distribute food more efficiently. This truck represents more than transportation — it means more food rescued, more families supported, and more dignity for those who rely on us each week.

As we approach the finish line, we’re also looking for creative places to place food donation boxes. If you own or manage a business, synagogue, school, office, or community space and would be willing to host a box, we would love to partner with you. Small, consistent donations add up to a big impact.

Finally, with citrus season in full swing, we are gratefully accepting extra citrus from backyard trees. Oranges, grapefruits, lemons — if you have more than you can use, we can make sure it reaches families who truly appreciate fresh produce.

This pantry is built on community. Thank you for helping us move closer to a future where no one has to worry about their next meal. If you’d like to host a donation box, donate citrus, or get involved in another way, please reach out — we’d love to hear from you.

We’re Almost There — and We Need the Community More Than Ever

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry is almost fully funded for the truck that will help us pick up and distribute food more efficiently. This truck represents more than transportation — it means more food rescued, more families supported, and more dignity for those who rely on us each week.

As we approach the finish line, we’re also looking for creative places to place food donation boxes. If you own or manage a business, synagogue, school, office, or community space and would be willing to host a box, we would love to partner with you. Small, consistent donations add up to a big impact.

Finally, with citrus season in full swing, we are gratefully accepting extra citrus from backyard trees. Oranges, grapefruits, lemons — if you have more than you can use, we can make sure it reaches families who truly appreciate fresh produce.

This pantry is built on community. Thank you for helping us move closer to a future where no one has to worry about their next meal. If you’d like to host a donation box, donate citrus, or get involved in another way, please reach out — we’d love to hear from you.

January 18, 2026
Love0