Make a Difference with Your Excess Citrus!

Donate Your Citrus to St. Mary’s Food Bank

If you live in Arizona, you’re likely no stranger to the abundance of citrus trees and bushes in the state. From oranges and lemons to grapefruits and tangerines, Arizona’s warm climate and rich soil make it an ideal location for growing a variety of citrus fruits.

But with such a bounty of fruit at your disposal, it can be overwhelming to know what to do with it all. Fortunately, St. Mary’s Food Bank has a program dedicated to citrus. Donating your excess citrus is a great way to share the abundance with those in need and reduce food waste. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Gather and prepare your fruit. Choose the freshest and most attractive fruit to donate. Citrus fruit should not have leaves, stems or decay. Please consider washing and carefully packing citrus to prevent bruising.
2. Deliver the fruit to St. Mary’s Food Bank or participate in one of our ‘Citrus Saturdays’. When you arrive, there is a designated drop-off locations for food donations. Follow the signs and be sure to follow any specific instructions provided by the food bank for properly delivering your fruit.

By donating your excess citrus, you can help provide a source of essential vitamins and nutrients to those in need and reduce food waste in your community. Not only will you be making a positive impact, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that your excess fruit is being put to good use.

Citrus drop-off donations will be accepted from ALL ZIP CODES at the below St. Mary’s Food Bank locations

beginning January 10, through April 30th, 2023
Monday – Friday 8am – 3pm

St. Mary’s Food Bank – Phoenix

2831 N. 31st Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85009

St. Mary’s Food Bank – Surprise

13050 W. Elm Street Surprise, AZ 85378

Citrus Saturdays

St. Mary’s Food Bank staff and trucks will be ready to accept your donations from all zip codes at the below location & dates:

Saturdays, February 4th & 11th, 2023

Desert Garden United Church of Christ

18818 N 128th Avenue

Sun City West, AZ 85375

9am – 3pm

Saturdays, February 4th, 11th & 18th 2023

Shepard of the Hills

5524 E. Lafayette Boulevard

Phoenix, AZ 85018

9am – 3pm

Saturdays, March 4th, & 11th 2023

Desert Heritage Church

1020 N. Horne Street

Mesa, AZ 85203

9am – 2pm

If you have any questions, please contact Timothy at (602)343-5658 or [email protected]