Current food affordability could impact Thanksgiving for locals

It hasn’t been a great year for working folk when it comes to food prices.

Because of that, the East Santa Cruz County Community Food Bank would appreciate any help locals could provide in anticipation of Thanksgiving. That means donations of turkeys, hams, beef as well as seasonal canned goods and produce.

“We anticipate some higher demand,” said Jim Staudacher, president of the food bank. “However, it is hard to predict.”

Last year, the food bank distributed 145 frozen turkeys and about 120 food bags so community families could put a Thanksgiving meal on the table.

The bank distributes extra holiday food bags at its regular distribution – 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. the second Saturday of the month. Frozen turkeys will be available on Saturday, Nov. 21.

Donations of nonperishable items can be dropped off at the bank’s loading dock, 772 Harshaw Ave., Patagonia, while donations of perishable food should be coordinated with food bank staff by calling (520) 302-4450. 

The food bank also accepts cash donations via check (P.O. Box 1147, Patagonia, AZ 85624) and digitally via its website, escccfoodbank.org.