As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to warm meals, shared laughter, and time spent with loved ones. But for some students at Pima Community College, this time of year brings a different kind of challenge. The uncertainty of where their next meal will come from.

The College’s ARC Resource Center & Food Pantry, has reminded us that food insecurity doesn’t take a break when the semester ends. Each month, the ARC provides more than 500 food bags and hygiene items to students across Pima’s campuses. But when winter break begins, those essential services pause, leaving many without reliable access to meals.

That’s why during this time of year, the ARC is holding their annual Winter Wonder Bag initiative, a heartfelt effort to provide 200 holiday meal bags to Pima students experiencing financial, housing, or food insecurity. Each bag will include everything needed to make a warm, nourishing meal:

• A $15 voucher toward a turkey, ham, or veggie platter
• Mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, canned fruit, biscuit mix, canned vegetables
• Plus, extra items students can “shop” for to personalize their holiday meal

But to make this happen, we need your help.

Their goal is to raise $5,000 to ensure every Winter Wonder Bag is filled and ready to share before the semester ends. If you’re able, we invite you to give the gift of comfort and nourishment this season. You can make a one-time, tax-deductible donation by clicking here or sign up for the employee payroll deduction program to become an ARC sustaining partner.

Prefer to give in another way? The ARC is also hosting a Winter Wonder Food Drive, collecting canned fruit, canned vegetables, and mashed potatoes. Donations can be dropped off at the Desert Vista or West Campus ARC Pantry, or at the Faculty Services Resource Center.

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps keep shelves stocked and hearts full. As food costs continue to rise, the ARC’s impact depends on the generosity of donors, employees, and community members who believe in supporting Pima students through every season of their journey.

Together, we can make sure every student has a reason to feel the warmth of the holidays this winter.

From all of us at Pima Foundation and the ARC, thank you for standing with our students. Your kindness makes all the difference.

Let’s make this season truly wonderful for everyone.