SE Valley Times

Mesa residents have an opportunity to support their community through the ABC: A Better Community donation program, which offers shelter, meals, and essential services to children, families, and seniors facing economic challenges. This initiative by the City of Mesa allows individuals to donate online with one-time or recurring contributions. Utility customers can also contribute by adding donations to their monthly bill payments.

For the fiscal year 2024-2025, ABC grant money has been allocated to three non-profit agencies:

Dress for Success provides career services for low-income Mesa residents, offering training in resume writing, mock interviews, job searches, networking, personal branding, and interview attire. The funding will assist 250 residents. "We are deeply grateful for the City of Mesa's support through the ABC Donation Grant," said Tamala McBath, CEO of Dress for Success Phoenix. "These programs equip women in Mesa with education and skills needed in today's competitive job market."

Paz de Cristo offers meals and other services to those struggling with hunger and homelessness. The funding will help 3,500 residents. Jackie Shelley, Executive Director of Paz de Cristo stated: "This grant has allowed Paz de Cristo Community Center to serve more than 10,000 residents experiencing poverty and homelessness."

United Food Bank provides food assistance and will use the funding to aid 56,395 residents. Jason Reed, CEO of United Food Bank expressed gratitude for being part of the program: "This contribution has helped us provide and distribute 300,000 meals to local agencies."

In the past year alone, ABC donations have supported numerous non-profit services including empowerment/academic youth services for over a thousand individuals and employment service provision.

More information about how to participate in this donation program is available at mesaaz.gov/abc.