Access To Healthy Food For All
Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona
The Community Food Resource Center works to build a community where all people at all times have access to sufficient food for a healthy life—a food secure community.
Since 1976, the Community Food Bank has met the food needs of hungry people. In 2001, the Community Food Resource Center was established to pursue a comprehensive strategy to support people in providing healthy food for themselves and families in the long term. The vision of the center reflects the concept of community food security
Food Production and Desert Gardening Education
Community Foods Consignment
An opportunity for home gardeners and small farmers to sell their produce and other locally produced food products (honey, eggs, etc.) on consignment at the Farmers’ Markets.
Gleaning
Harvesting, primarily during citrus season (January thru April), of fruits and vegetables from area homes, schools, farms, and the University of Arizona for distribution to Food Bank clients.
Home Gardening
Assistance is provided to people to grow some of their own food and meet peoples’ existing motivation with the knowledge and materials to be a successful gardener in the Sonora Desert. Compost, seeds, and starter plants are provided as available.
Las Milpitas
An urban community farm that provides educational opportunities, capacity building, and a place for area residents to grow their own food. It also serves as a working demonstration site in desert food production, composting, ecological restoration, and permaculture for the greater Tucson community. The Farm welcomes youth and adults for volunteer and educational opportunities.
Nuestra Tierra
A 7,000 square foot garden on the northwest corner of the Food Bank grounds. The garden is managed organically with two 10′ X 10′ compost bins, a 15′ X 15′ greenhouse, and a spacious hen house. The garden demonstrates and promotes desert food production methods and provides a peaceful place for all.
Workshops
Workshops are available on a wide variety of topics. Our new workshop series begins in August!
Youth Farm Project
Youth ages 14-18 learn the basics of organic agriculture in the desert, as well as green job skills like water harvesting and natural building, as they train to be the next generation of farmers and informed consumers.