Community Impact: on the ground in Arizona

Greater Good Charities recently participated in the Guest Appreciation Event at the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. An event highlight was the distribution of essential supplies for people and pets through Good Packs, which immensely benefited those in need.

Photo © Greater Good Charities

The demand for the Good Packs was high.

The impact of Good Packs was not just practical but deeply emotional.

Many parents expressed gratitude for school supplies, highlighting their crucial role in their children's education. One particularly touching moment was when a child's face lit up upon finding a teddy bear in her pack. And many dogs were spotted sporting their new leashes.

The significance of these supplies goes beyond their immediate utility. Maintaining possessions can be challenging for many in the communities Greater Good Charities serves. Kevin and Ruben from Arizona shared the impact of these supplies on the lives of unhoused individuals.

Kevin’s Story

Photo © Caridad Community Kitchen

Kevin is part of a small, unhoused community near Caridad Community Kitchen. Known for his cheerful demeanor and willingness to help others, he has been a regular at the meal service for years.

He and his girlfriend, embodying the true spirit of community, serve as primary providers for their camp, often distributing supplies to those unable to attend the service. It is common to see the couple bring someone new or show up with pets from their camp to give the owners a little break.  

As camps have been swept, the couple has shown up less often, as it has become more challenging for them to get to Caridad when they have belongings and a community to protect. Despite their challenges, Kevin’s dedication to his community has not wavered. The couple arrived at the event with a cart ready to bring back anything they could for their camp. 

Kevin was thrilled to receive essential supplies from Greater Good Charities to share with his camp and was happy to show off his Good Pack for the camera.

Ruben’s Story

Photo © Caridad Community Kitchen

Ruben is another long-time visitor to the meal service. 

Displaced from his nearby camp due to sweeps and disagreements, he found himself alone without other people to help protect his campsite and belongings. 

Ruben lives outdoors in a tent situated in nearby washes and riverbeds. His backpack was stolen, and many of his items were washed away during recent flooding.  

In need of a backpack and a safe way to travel with his possessions, he was incredibly grateful for his Good Pack, especially the blanket, which provided him with something soft to put down in his tent.

Supplies for People in Need

With many shelters operating at total capacity, many unhoused people are left without options. 

Good Packs play a crucial role in these communities. They provide survival and comfort supplies in times of crisis. Each Good Pack is a lifeline, containing essential items like a warm blanket, clothing, socks, soap, shampoo, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and a reusable water bottle. 

These items are thoughtfully packed in a backpack. This is a safer and healthier way to carry belongings, as the weight is evenly distributed across one’s back.

Photo © Greater Good Charities

Thanks to your generous donations, Greater Good Charities has distributed over 73,000 Good Packs to those in need. Donate now to ensure vulnerable populations have access to essential supplies.