SAFFORD — The Democratic candidate for congress in the district that represents Graham, Greenlee and Cochise counties got a chance to see what makes the Gila Valley tick — from both the profit and nonprofit sides.
JoAnna Mendoza took part in a pair of tours on Thursday, first visiting three nonprofit organizations — Southeastern Arizona Community Unique Services (SEACUS), Our Neighbor’s Farm and Pantry, and Great Communities Resource Center (GCRC).
At SEACUS she learned about the services offered and she helped deliver three lunches to homebound seniors through the Meals on Wheels program.
She toured the GCRC donation processing center, thrift store and apartments for special needs clients who have a level of independence. And she toured the food bank and the working farm at Our Neighbor’s Farm and Pantry.
Bonnie Dalzine, executive director for Our Neighbor’s Farm and Pantry, said it’s important for those elected and those running to see first-hand the issues nonprofit organizations are facing following months of federal funding cuts.
“SNAP benefits everything,” Dalzine said. “Federal cuts; we’re hurting just like everybody else.”
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
In the afternoon, Mendoza joined the Graham County Chamber of Commerce for a tour of small businesses on Safford’s Main Street.
“We went to (Mi Casa) Tortilla Factory, Retrograde BBQ and Brew, we went to Marcia’s Legacy Soap Co., we walked by the Gaethje mural; we just went all around Downtown,” said Vance Bryce Chamber executive director.
The previous day, Mendoza spoke with Safford City Manager Eric Bejarano and Police Chief Brian Avila to learn about the needs of rural law enforcement.
“There is such a need in our communities,” Mendoza said. “I think it’s so important for elected officials to be in the communities so they can understand how hard people are working to help each other, and also the gaps and where the federal government can step in.”
Mendoza is running to unseat incumbent U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani, R-Ariz.
The Graham County Chamber of Commerce offers economic tours to all candidates and elected officials, regardless of party affiliation.
Editor’s note: Reporter David Bell sits on the boards for SEACUS and GCRC.
