United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties awards $52,500 to support EAC’s Monster Exchange food pantry

EAC photo: Eastern Arizona College’s cheerleaders and Gila Hank join, from left to right in the front row: Monster Exchange Manager Rachel Richardson; Jody Judd, EAC head coach for cheer and pom; Amanda Patterson, United Way grant manager; Denise Benton, United Way executive director; Patti Wren, EAC student life administrator; Todd Haynie, EAC president; Susan Wood, EAC vice president of academic and student affairs; and Jody Peck, EAC administrative assistant. From left to right in the back row: Sean Wenham, Freeport-McMoRan regional manager of community development; Dallen Rogers, ASEAC president; Carlie Paz, ASEAC; Gary Sorensen, EAC dean of students and director of summer camps and large events; Lelia Oliver, ASEAC; Declan Carlton, ASEAC; and Charmaine Chidester, EAC director of grants.

By Kris McBride/EAC

THATCHER, Ariz. — The United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties awarded $52,500 to the Eastern Arizona College (EAC) Monster Exchange pantry to support its ongoing efforts to reduce student food insecurity. The grant, awarded for the third consecutive year, provides critical funding to a program that reflects EAC’s commitment to helping students academically and personally thrive.

The EAC Monster Exchange has seen a steady increase in activity, with more than 5,667 visits last academic year and a significant rise in visits during the first month of the fall semester. This growth demonstrates the program’s vital role in providing students access to fresh produce, non-perishable items, and school supplies.

“The Monster Exchange is a vital part of our efforts to help students stay focused on their education,” said Charmaine Chidester, EAC’s director of grants. “United Way’s funding allows us to meet much of the need, but we still rely on community donations to keep the shelves stocked. Every contribution — whether it’s food, school supplies, or monetary support — makes a difference in the lives of our students.”

The EAC Monster Exchange is part of a strong support network from local organizations, staff, and community members. These contributions and United Way’s funding provide students with the resources they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.

“Helping students meet basic needs today lays the foundation for a brighter tomorrow,” Chidester added. “When students succeed, the entire community benefits, and we’re so grateful for the generosity of those who help make that success possible.”

This grant was made possible in large part through the generosity of the Freeport-McMoRan Foundation and its employees, who are the largest contributors to the United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties’ funding efforts.

Community members are encouraged to support the EAC Monster Exchange by donating non-perishable food, fresh produce, clothing, toiletries, school supplies, or funds. Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 3683 W. Church Street in Thatcher. For more information, contact EAC Monster Exchange Manager Rachel Richardson at (928) 428-8387 or Rachel.Richardson@eac.edu.

About United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties

Since 1978, the United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties has improved lives by focusing on education, health, and financial stability—the building blocks for a quality life. By bringing together the community’s hearts, hands, and minds, the United Way continues to make a lasting impact.

About Eastern Arizona College

Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EAC is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.

Offering a diverse range of over 90 degrees and certificates and two bachelor’s degrees, EAC is home to the state’s premier nursing school, a fine arts program featuring Arizona’s only community college marching band, and an engineering program that equips students for success at top-tiered firms and universities.

Beyond academics, EAC is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. At EAC, students can live in on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.

What sets EAC apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.

Choose EAC as your Smart Higher Education Destination. For more information, visit www.eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.