Phoenix-based nonprofit Advance Community recently received a $100,000 donation from Molina Healthcare of Arizona in support of the organization’s Food Box Program. The donation helped Advance purchase a refrigerated van that will be used for delivering nutritious food boxes to program participants in underserved communities.
A nonprofit that works locally and globally to break cycles of poverty through health education, nutrition, and access to care, the team at Advance used the van for the first time on August 8 to deliver 90 hand-packed boxes of fresh food to Valleywise patients.
“This van is so much more than transportation — it’s a lifeline,” said Jeri Royce, CEO of Advance Community. “It allows us to reach more families with healthy food, dignity, and hope. With Molina’s generosity, and the support of other community partners, we can continue breaking barriers to health and ensure that no one is left behind.”
Each 25-pound food box is thoughtfully curated with staples like bread, eggs, butter, plant-based milk, spices, grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables — enough to feed a family of four for two to three days. Recipes are included in each box to help families make the most of the ingredients.
Since launching the Food Box Program in June 2024, Advance has delivered 2,464 boxes to 442 participants, providing fresh, healthy meals for Valley residents who need them most.
“Molina shares Advance’s mission to enhance access to critical resources for underserved communities,” said Minnie Andrade, plan president of Molina Healthcare of Arizona. “We are grateful for the opportunity to join Advance in the great work they are doing to bring healthy, nutritious food to Arizonians, helping to improve their lives and well-being.”
Delta Dental has supported the van’s community presence by funding the van’s branded wrap, while Valleywise Health Foundation is ensuring the program’s long-term impact by funding the vehicle’s ongoing maintenance.
For more information about how to support Advance Community and its mission, visit https://advancecommunity.org/.
