Behind the Scenes: NourishPHX

01.19.2023

Brittany Viar

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What does the word “community” mean to you? To NourishPHX, our current give back partner, it signifies selflessly providing basic human necessities and opportunities to those who otherwise may not have access to it. When you purchase a bag of the Give Back Blend, 10% of proceeds go toward their organization.

Previously known as ICM food and clothing bank, NourishPHX was founded in 1983 by a group of community members, churches, and other congregations in the area who observed a need for emergency assistance. At first, the operation primarily supplied clothing, but then grew to food, hygiene supplies, and more recently, job services. Since its origination, the demand for services has only expanded. Today, it is a trusted haven for vulnerable individuals and families alike. Here, folks can expect resources, seasonal programming, job assistance and more to help them lay the groundwork toward self-sufficiency.

“I organize the monthly program calendar for clients including classes, workshops and skill training,” said Kat Eglezos, Program Director of NourishPHX. “In addition to food and clothing, we provide job assistance through our job and resource center where we provide one-on-one services including resume and cover letter writing, mock interviews, work attire assistance, transportation assistance for those eligible, education assistance and so much more. We also sign families up for SNAP or EBT (food stamps) as well as AHCCCS.”

While NourishPHX doesn’t have the capacity to provide every kind of service people may need, they refer them to other operations that can accommodate.

“Without services like this, peoples’ basic human needs are not met, and in this day and age, that is inexcusable,” Eglezos said. “We all must do our part to serve others where we can, as it is our civic duty. We are the only source of food and basic necessities for some people, and I’d hate to see what the world would look like without operations like this in place. We take a one-on-one approach and treat everyone who comes through the door with kindness and dignity.”

NourishPHX serves over 100 individuals and families each day. Though they have a PR and marketing team dedicated to getting their name out there, word of mouth – whether it be through a friend, a friend of a friend, neighbor or family member – is the best source for bringing in newcomers.

The organization is always eager for extra help to continue to succor as many clients as possible. Volunteers can expect to work in the clothing room or food pantry, sort through donations, fill food boxes, and perform other duties as necessary.

“I’ve said it to everyone who knows me, this is the best job I’ve ever had,” Eglezos said. “It’s my life now and I’m extremely fortunate to be part of it. The fact that I get the benefit of working one-on-one with the people face-to-face, every day, is something I’ve always wanted. All I’ve ever really wanted to do was help people, and in my role as the Program Director, I see the difference we make every single day. I have the perfect balance of being in a leadership role to help create long term change and being another set of boots on the ground doing the work. I firmly believe that this is what I was meant to do.”

Interested in getting involved? Click here to learn more.

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