Arizona Food Bank Network
About the project
Since 1984, Arizona Food Bank Network (AzFBN) has worked to address hunger in Arizona by supporting food banks, educating the public and policymakers about food insecurity, and innovating with programs geared toward preventing more people from being hungry and relying on the emergency food network. AzFBN supports food banks through the transportation of food, most of which is donated fruits and vegetables, to a statewide network of food banks and agency partners. This work helps strengthen the community, as reducing hunger means a healthier future for those at risk.
AzFBN originally focused on the state of Arizona. In 2022, they expanded to serve foodbanks from California to Oklahoma.
LISC provided a $2.60 million acquisition loan to AzFBN to support the acquisition of their leased space in Rio Rico, AZ. Prior to moving to this space in 2022, the organization had limited cooler space and had to store produce in refrigerated trailers. Savings from decreased trailer rentals and fuel usage were rechanneled into operations. Purchasing the space will provide additional savings the organization can invest in serving its member foodbanks. Arizona Community Foundation purchased a 50% participation interest in LISC's loan.
Partner:
Arizona Food Bank Network
Location:
Rio Rico, AZ
Total Investment:
$2.60 million
Results:
32,045 sq. ft.
12 jobs created or preserved
Project Category:
Food Security
Specialized Funding Source:
Healthy Food Financing Initiative
Product:
Acquisition loan
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