THANK YOU CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH 3/12/2024

Green Bag Collection site at the VOC 12/14/2024

Let me introduce you to one of the VOC’s very own treasures–Project Fill the Need, A Food Pantry (PFTN). It is a volunteer-based, 501(c)(3) non-profit, community-supported food pantry located in the Village of Oak Creek at the Big Park Community School serving the underserved residents of the Village of Oak Creek and surrounding communities. Since its opening in September of 2021, the PFTN food pantry has provided assistance to an average of 40 to 60 clients per month who represent roughly 100+ household members. This average increases by approximately 4 to 6 new clients each month.

PFTN serves those in the VOC who are homeless, senior citizens, veterans, those disabled or coping with a chronic illness, the working poor and those looking to provide nutritious meals for their children. Often times these neighbors are reluctant to ask for assistance. But towards the end of the month, when funds are low, they find a bag or two of groceries is a tremendous help.

The Pantry is open the last Saturday of each month from 11 am to 2 pm at the Big Park School

PFTN depends upon the support of many:

• Food and non-food donations in its donation bins throughout the VOC, i.e., Snap Fitness, VOCA Clubhouse, Northern Arizona Healthcare in Bell Rock Plaza and Camp Verde, Chase Bank, Canyon Mesa Country Club, Clark’s Market and the Sedona Public Library in the Village
• Food donations from the Verde Valley Neighborhood Food Project’s “Green Bag Program” and Manzanita Outreach
• Financial donations from many area businesses, churches and other non-profits
• Financial donations from individuals via the PFTN website: www.projectfilltheneed.org
• Fundraisers, i.e., “Non-Profit Mondays” at Clark’s Market and Bingo at the Main Stage in Cottonwood
• And many wonderful, hard-working volunteers without whom PFTN could not exist

Addressing Food Insecurity

While the VOC is a relatively small community, food insecurity can impact residents of all ages, from children to seniors. PFTN ensures that those facing financial hardships have access to nutritious food, preventing hunger and promoting well-being.

Community Strength

Supporting a local food pantry fosters a sense of unity and care within the community. It allows neighbors to help neighbors, reinforcing the bonds that make the VOC a compassionate and connected place to live.

Accessibility

With PFTN being the only food pantry in the VOC, residents in need don’t have to travel far to receive assistance. Losing this resource would leave vulnerable individuals and families without immediate help and force them to seek aid in other towns, which could be logistically challenging.

Volunteer and Donor Opportunities

For those who may not need assistance themselves, PFTN offers meaningful opportunities to give back. By volunteering time or donating resources, residents can actively contribute to making their community a better place.

Enhancing Local Reputation

Communities known for supporting charitable initiatives tend to attract like-minded individuals and families, improving the VOC’s reputation as a caring and supportive place to live.

Tax-Deductible Donations

As a recognized non-profit 501(c)(3), donations to PFTN may be tax-deductible, allowing residents to contribute in a way that benefits both their community and their finances.

Strengthening Local Economy

By ensuring that basic needs are met, PFTN enables recipients to allocate limited resources to other expenses, such as housing, utilities, and local businesses, indirectly supporting the local economy.

Supporting PFTN isn’t just an act of kindness—it’s an investment in the well-being, resilience, and prosperity of the Village of Oak Creek. Whether through donations, volunteerism, or advocacy, every contribution strengthens the safety net for neighbors in need.

If you would like to learn more about our organization and how you can help, please visit our website: www.projectfilltheneed.org

Thank you for your support, neighbors!

Dave Whisner
PFTN Board Member and 22-Year VOC Resident

Project Fill the Need Food Pantry 501(c) (3)
PO Box 20801
Sedona AZ 86341-0801

E-mail us at: info@projectfilltheneed.org
Visit our website at: www.projectfilltheneed.org