Photo By Lori Dugan/EAC: EAC received a $5,000 grant from One AZ recently. Pictured are, from Left: Addie Carpenter, ASEAC executive assistant; Reiney King, ASEAC social media; Patti Wren, ASEAC student administrator; Rachel Richardson, Monster Exchange manager; David Udall, Foundation executive director; Enrique Garcia, OneAZ Credit Union Safford branch manager; Todd Haynie, EAC president; Dr. Susan Wood, EAC vice-president; Charmaine Chidester, grants director; Mark Wren, ASEAC student body president; Hannah Webster, grants department assistant; Paige Palmer, ASEAC secretary.
By Hannah Webster and Lori Dugan
THATCHER, Ariz. — Eastern Arizona’s Monster Exchange—the College’s food, clothes, and supplies pantry—is the recipient of a $5,000 Impact Grant from OneAz Credit Union. As one of four local Arizona recipients of an Impact grant, the Monster Exchange is grateful for OneAz Credit Union’s commitment to community support, and to EAC’s Foundation for administering the grant.
“We are honored to receive this Impact grant from OneAZ to help us continue to provide food, clothing, and school supplies to EAC students on our campus in Thatcher, Arizona,” said Charmaine Chidester, EAC grants director. “We recognize that students cannot excel academically if they struggle to meet their basic needs. OneAZ’s support will help students stay in school and complete their education without worrying about food insecurity.”
The Monster Exchange has become a key resource to students since its inception in 2020 and increased in use by more than 1,400 visits during the 2022 school year compared to 2021. Help from local organizations, grants, and generous donations by staff and community members extends a lifeline for struggling students working toward a better future. EAC is looking forward to helping more students as the 2023-2024 school year begins.
The Monster Exchange welcomes donations of food, clothing, toiletries, and school supplies as well as monetary donations. Please contact the Pantry Manager, Rachel Richardson, at Rachel.Richardson@eac.edu or drop off donations Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at 3683 W. Church Street in Thatcher.
About OneAZ Credit Union
OneAZ Credit Union is a member-owned financial institution serving over 161,000 members and over 10,000 businesses with 20 branch locations across Arizona. As a credit union with over $3.3 billion in assets, OneAZ is owned by its members, who benefit from better rates, lower fees for service, and improved technology. Since 1951, OneAZ has strived to help Arizonans meet their financial needs through a full suite of personal and business banking solutions. OneAZ’s mission is to truly improve the lives of its members, its associates, and the communities it serves. To learn more, visit OneAZcu.com. Insured by NCUA.
About Eastern Arizona College
Eastern Arizona College – the first community college in Arizona – has helped students claim their dreams since 1888. EAC’s qualified and caring instructors prepare students for the most in-demand careers and advanced study at universities. EAC offers more than 80 certificates and degrees, including the #1 nursing school in Arizona, a fine arts program featuring the only marching band in Arizona, and an engineering program that brings students up to speed for success at universities and top-tiered firms. Students thrive at EAC, making friendships that last a lifetime. EAC’s vibrant student experience includes on-campus housing, more than 30 clubs and organizations, active intramurals, and nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams. At EAC, most students leave with $0 debt. Let EAC provide an affordable way for you to claim your dreams. Contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272 today.
