Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS), a leading human services nonprofit organization in Maricopa County, announced today that it has been awarded a 2023 Mercy C.A.R.E.S. Community Reinvestment Grant of $105,000. The grant will provide vital funding to the JFCS Just 3 Things Pantry, a unique initiative that provides tailored selections of shelf-stable foods, personal care and cleaning items to those in need.

The Just 3 Things Pantry stands out for its personalized approach. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, the pantry customizes its offerings based on the specific needs of children, youth, individuals, and families that rely on JFCS's multiple services. This ensures that every recipient gets precisely what they need when they need it.

“We are profoundly grateful to Mercy Care for their generous grant of $105,000,” says Dr. Lorrie Henderson, President and CEO of Jewish Family & Children's Service. “With this grant, we can continue our mission of providing not just food, but hope, dignity and a sense of belonging to the thousands of children, youth, individuals, and families who rely on our extensive network of services.”

Mercy C.A.R.E.S., which stands for Community Action Resources Education and Service, is Mercy Care’s community giving initiative. Through grant funding, sponsorships, volunteer efforts and board participation, Mercy C.A.R.E.S. supports AHCCCS’ Whole Person Care Initiative, which addresses Social Risk Factors to improve health outcomes.

“Mercy Care is thrilled to provide Jewish Family & Children’s Service with a Community Reinvestment Grant. As an organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of all Arizonans, and particularly those who are underserved with complex health needs, we are happy to partner with the JFCS Just 3 Things Pantry in making a positive impact on our community,” says Trisha Stuart, Mercy Care director of community relations. “Through Mercy C.A.R.E.S., we partner with organizations across the state whose health focus areas align with ours such as managing chronic conditions, supporting mental health and well-being, addressing housing insecurity, and empowering recovery for substance use.”

This is the first year that JFCS has been awarded a grant for its Just 3 Things program. To learn more about Just 3 Things, including donation and volunteer opportunities, visit jfcsaz.org/volunteer/jfcs-just-3-things-food-pantry.