St. Paul’s Packathon is a yearly event where volunteers pack meals for the food insecure in Tucson. Our next Packathon is Sunday, March 6, 2022. Packing takes place in the Billy and Ann Still Life Center on our campus. This year, we are packing 25,000 meals.
In about an hour, and in two separate shifts, volunteers pack nutritious, balanced and shelf stable meals. Meals are an apple spice oatmeal breakfast. Meals will be delivered to the Casa Maria Soup Kitchen (http://www.casamariatucson.org) and the Salvation Army (https://www.salvationarmytucson.org). Local organizations often get donations for lunch and dinner meals, but there is also a great need for breakfast.
St. Paul’s is partnering with The Outreach Program (https://outreachprogram.org), an Iowa based non-profit corporation that organizes food packaging events around the country.
Besides packing meals, volunteers are needed to lead teams, assist with sanitation and expedite supplies to the packers. All ages, including children five years and older, working with parents or guardians, can participate in packing. There are jobs which can be done while seated as well. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, all volunteers need to pre-register, and present their proof of vaccination at that time. To volunteer, please contact the church office, or visit the registration table on the patio between Sunday services.
The community may also help out by making a donation, which may be made online or in the church office. Meals cost about 30 cents each (plus shipping), so $8,000 needs to be raised. Donations may be made in any amount.
For more information about the Packathon, please contact the Packathon team by email (packathon@stpaulsumctucson.org), or through the church office. Please contact Megan Swanson (secretary@stpaulsumctucson.net) by email or at the church office for information on donations. The contact number for the office is 520-296-6149.