Story by Vicki Austin
Our animals are part of the family, providing companionship, stress relief, and emotional support. Some families in Tucson might not be able to feed their animals. They may be homeless and without resources; perhaps they’re a veteran, just getting back on their feet. The elderly, the infirm – anyone who is struggling to decide whether to eat or choose instead to feed their beloved pets – might wonder where they’ll find help.
The Southern Arizona Animal Food Bank (SAAFB) is here to fill that gap. Created in 2015, the mother-daughter team of Donna and Margaux DeConcini established a donation and distribution center, initially for horses and later for dogs, cats, and other family pets. Donna recently relocated the store to 4444 E. Grant Avenue, Suite 116, Tucson, 85712, where she serves all of southern Arizona.
Photo: SAAFB #2 At the market
It Takes a Village
If you’ve ever met Donna, you know that the SAAFB runs on her determination and drive. The organization is proud to have a tight-knit group of volunteers, each filling specific roles. Millie Hartman runs the Artisan Markets for SAAFB, recruiting vendors and generating traffic for craft goods whose proceeds go back to the animal food bank. David Zinke, director of food distribution, does inventory, and Nick Morelli helps with deliveries. “We have too many people to thank, but I want to acknowledge Randi Holzman, Leslie Bellis, Cathy Leroy, Shorty Wilconson, Krista Miller, Troy Dainty, and Zac Fisher.” Those folks and more keep the store humming and the animals fed, she said, but the need is ever-growing for more volunteers.
“The real issue we need to address is limiting the population of animals in Southern Arizona,” Donna said. “We’re distributing 10,000 pounds a month to animal families in need, but it’s getting harder to keep up with demand. That’s why we appreciate our donors so very much, as well as our volunteers.”
Partnerships for Pets
Donna would be the first one to say that SAAFB can’t do this job of feeding hungry animals alone. She’s passionate about the topic of spaying and neutering to control the animal population, reducing the need for donated food. To that end, SAAFB works closely with Tucson Action Team (TAT), another nonprofit that supports the health and well-being of animals in Tucson. Their mission is to advocate for, promote, and protect the rights and well-being of dogs. Together with Donna, they spread the word about low-cost spaying and neutering opportunities for families that cannot afford the typical cost of service.
Other SAAFB alliances include the Humane Society of Arizona, the Hermitage Cat Shelter, Gospel Rescue Mission, Sister Jane Women’s Shelter, and Santa Cruise Soup Kitchen. Veterinarians, too, are partners in the cause.
How it Works
When someone needs food for their pet, they can fill out an application form at the new store. Office hours are currently 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. Once the request is approved, applicants receive a 30-day supply of pet food. Due to the increased need for animal food assistance, applications per household are limited to four times per year.
Donors Offer Critical Support
“At this time of year, we hope people will consider SAAFB in their year-end giving,” said Donna, citing the organization’s dependence on monetary gifts from donors to continue serving animals in need. “We so appreciate those whose hearts lead them to SAAFB and those who have a special affinity for animals. Most people do!” she said.
To generate interest and contributions, Donna and her team have come up with a variety of ways for people to give to SAAFB, whether that’s a monetary gift or donations of goods for the animals. One way is to host a holiday party where, instead of a gift exchange, people donate food, treats, or pet toys to SAAFB. “We even have companies that host a competition, and the department that generates the most donations get to have a kettle corn and shaved ice party on us,” she said.
She spoke about the scope of donations SAAFB receives. “We get everything from dog and cat food to medications, toys, beds, crates, and household items,” she said. The food bank accepts gently used items as well as non-expired pet food from owners whose beloved animals have “crossed the rainbow bridge.” The act of giving back to SAAFB in honor of their pets seems to provide some comfort to those who have lost their pets. Donors are invited to add their pet’s name to the Rainbow Bridge in the store. (photo provided)
The SAAFB does its best to meet demand, but sometimes things can get tight. Donna is proud of the fact that they’ve never turned anyone away, but she emphasized that SAAFB cannot sustain itself without the support of the community. “We serve all of Southern Arizona, including Tucson, Three Points, Wilcox, and the Pascua Yaqui and Tohono O’odham communities,” Donna said. “With the help of our donors, volunteers, and partners, we can make a difference with all the animals we love.
For more information, visit www.saafb.org 4444 E. Grant Road, Suite 116, Tucson, 85712. Store hours, Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. To donate or volunteer, please visit the website or reach out via email to info@saafb.org.
