With more than 129,000 people filing for jobless claims last week in Arizona, and the Department of Economic Security having difficulty distributing funds, Arizona's food pantries are bracing for an avalanche of demand.
The federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act has sent $9.8 million for food and nutrition assistance for Arizona's low-income individuals.
The governor's office dedicated nearly three-quarters of those dollars to purchasing food and the remaining money to help food banks store and distribute it.
Households with incomes below 185% of the poverty level are eligible. For a family of three, that translates to about $37,000 a year.
Applicants need only a photo ID and proof of residence. Instead of proof of income, individuals will sign a form claiming they meet the guidelines and will not sell the food.
