Arizona nonprofit K2 Adventures Foundation announced it is teaming up with Arizona Gold Exchange to make financial contributions totaling $75,000 to support recovery efforts for local food bank Maricopa Pantry.

“I cannot express the depth of my gratitude to K2 Adventures Foundation and Arizona Gold Exchange,” said Alice Shoaf, who founded Maricopa Pantry along with her husband, Jim. “Since the fire that destroyed our facilities, we have struggled to continue to supply needed food to local residents while we make plans to rebuild. Our food is stored in borrowed trailers, and our supplies are stored in our vehicles. Meanwhile the need is growing; each week the number of people looking for food is more. K2 Adventures Foundation, collaborating with Arizona Gold Exchange, recognized the need and reached out to help – in a big way. This is neighbors helping neighbors at its best, and we are eternally grateful.”

The Maricopa-area food bank was devastated in March by a fire that burned its trailers and destroyed 50,000 pounds of food. Prior to the fire, an estimated 1,200 local families depended on the food pantry each week.

“These are difficult times for too many Arizona families, and those of us at K2 Adventures were heartbroken to hear about the fire at Maricopa Food Pantry,” said Kristen Sandquist, CEO of K2 Adventures Foundation. “We are proud to partner with Arizona Gold Exchange in helping Maricopa Food Pantry rebuild and restock as it serves local families in need.”

When Arizona Gold Exchange owner Dan Maxwell learned of the Maricopa Pantry fire, he decided he had to help. Maxwell donated $50,000 to the K2 Adventures Foundation via its Food for Families program, which is using the funding to help Maricopa Food Pantry rebuild and continue serving needy families. K2 Adventures Foundation is donating an additional $25,000 that will enable the pantry to restock food supplies destroyed in the blaze, as well as provide a temporary food distribution location while the pantry is rebuilt.

“I would do anything to help bring food to those in need,” Maxwell said. “The fire was devastating to thousands of people, and I am happy to help.”

Both the K2 Adventures Foundation and Arizona Gold Exchange believe no family should go hungry. The organizations are proud to assist Maricopa Food Pantry, and know time is of the essence for struggling Arizona families.

“The cost of a cart of groceries has gone up dramatically, which is further squeezing Arizonans living paycheck to paycheck,” Sandquist said. “Maricopa Food Pantry has always been there with a helping hand for Arizona families, and we’re proud to be there for the Pantry during its time of need.”

Read more about Maricopa Pantry here.