Prescott, Arizona (Oct. 7, 2025) –  In partnership with St. Mary’s Food Bank, Yavapai College is hosting another drive-through food distribution on the Prescott Campus.

The goal of the now semi-annual food distribution organized by Yavapai College’s Food Pantry Committee and volunteers: Get fresh and non-perishable food into the homes of Yavapai College students and community members who need it.

“If you need food, come and get food. We will load you up,” said Yavapai College Student Affairs Coordinator Deborah Chambers.

After seeing a similar event unfold in another community, Chambers and her colleagues were determined to replicate it at Yavapai College.   

Since its inception in fall 2024, the Yavapai College community food distributions have helped more than 600 households fill their cupboards and refrigerators.

“This is who we are. This is what we do. We lift people up and not just our own students,” Chambers said. “As long as our partners have food available, we will keep doing this.”

The college’s third community-wide food distribution is happening between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17. As before, the food distribution is open to everyone, is a drive-through operation commencing on North Washington Street and ending in the Prescott campus main parking lot. Volunteers will load vehicles with food on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

The exact amount and type of food to be given away won’t be known until the day before the distribution, Chambers said. However, she expects the boxes loaded into participants’ trunks to include fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, meat, dairy products and non-perishables. “It will be a nice variety,” she said.

The college opened a food pantry for students and their families in 2017 to prevent students struggling with basic needs from giving up on their career and academic dreams. The pantry, which is supported by individuals, local churches, organizations and Saint Mary’s Food Bank, serves hundreds of students and their families annually.

Area residents unable to take advantage of the Oct. 17 community food distribution are welcome to ask a family member or neighbor to pick up food on their behalf. Residents can visit mohelp.org for other area food-sharing resources.

For more information, or to learn how to donate to YC’s emergency food pantry and other resources for students, visit yc.edu/foodpantry. Email Chambers, deborah.chambers@yc.edu.

Yavapai College operates seven campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, four baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu.