The East Valley JCC received an award from the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix for its JBox program at the CJP’s March 21 Lighting the Spark breakfast.
The Belle Latchman Award, which recognizes local Jewish nonprofit programs that enhance the quality of life in the Greater Phoenix area, was presented to Rabbi Michael Beyo, EVJCC CEO, by Richard Kasper, CJP CEO, at the breakfast, held at The Clayton House in Scottsdale.
The JBox kosher meal delivery program provides monthly meals to individuals and families in the East Valley who are experiencing food insecurity. Additionally, the JBox Food Pantry, in partnership with St. Vincent de Paul, provides monthly boxes of groceries to those in need throughout the Greater Phoenix community.
The kosher meals are prepared by Chef Melinda and delivered by volunteers. The program also provides free lunches to children in low-income families at the EVJCC’s Early Learning Center and Camp Rimon. Last year the program provided 5,000 meals and groceries for 300 families.Â
The JBox program is funded through grants and tax credit donations. Supporters include the Sundt Foundation, Season for Sharing, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and community donors.
The EVJCC plans to increase its capacity to help in the current year and if you’d like to join the effort to help feed fellow members of the community, please consider donating your tax credit to the EVJCC Qualifying Charitable Organization at evjcc.org/az-tax-credit.
Individuals can donate up to $400 and couples can donate up to $800. Unlike other donations, this is not a deduction off your income. If you donate $800, you get $800 directly off your AZ State Income Tax Bill. Make your donation by April 18 or whenever you file your taxes, whichever comes first.