AZCEND helps end childhood hunger
AZCEND raises $4,007 as part of nationwide Nourish the American Dream campaign to help end childhood hunger in the Phoenix East Valley
Community support during Albertsons Companies Foundation’s national campaign will help provide meals for local children and families
Chandler, Arizona (July 10, 2026) – Thanks to the generosity of local shoppers and supporters, AZCEND raised $4,007.75 through Albertsons Companies Foundation’s Nourish the American Dream campaign as part of its Nourishing Neighbors initiative, a first-of-its-kind nationwide fundraising effort that surpassed its $5 million goal and generated more than $12.2 million in support for childhood hunger relief across America.
Held July 1-7, the campaign united communities across the country through in-store donations and online giving, helping to provide critical funding for organizations addressing food insecurity at the local level. Every qualifying donation made during the campaign was matched by Albertsons Companies Foundation, amplifying the impact of every dollar raised.
The funds raised by AZCEND will provide meals through food box distribution giving children and families in the Phoenix East Valley access to the nutritious food they need.
Campaign results
- Amount Raised for AZCEND: $4,007.75 which contributed to the campaign’s national impact of $12.2 million generated in support of childhood hunger relief.
- Impact: Funds will provide more than 9,600 meals contributing to the campaign’s collective impact of 49 million meals nationwide.
Why it matters
Approximately one in five children in Maricopa County experience food insecurity. (FeedingAmerica.org) Childhood hunger remains a year-round challenge, with summer often being one of the most difficult times for families when school meals are unavailable. Community support through Nourish the American Dream helps ensure local children continue to have access to nutritious meals and the opportunity to thrive.
About AZCEND
The mission of AZCEND is to nourish minds and bodies so that neighbors in need experience a brighter future. More than one million meals were provided at AZCEND last year so that no one in our community goes hungry. The organization strives to relieve suffering while helping those in need improve their quality of life.
While food boxes, home-delivered meals and lunch are provided every weekday, AZCEND also offers a lifeline of essential programs and services.
- Safe, emergency lodging gives people experiencing homelessness the stability they need to get back on their feet.
- Assistance with rent and utilities keeps families together in their homes.
- AZCEND’s early childhood literacy programs help little ones succeed in kindergarten and beyond.
- Parenting classes equip adults to support their children.
- Activities for seniors combat loneliness and isolation.
- Heat relief and respite keep people safe, nourished and hydrated during the hottest months of the year.
AZCEND has been providing help and hope to neighbors in need since 1966. This powerful intervention of food and shelter along with learning, growth and development is helping end the cycle of poverty. Learn more about AZCEND