Grand Canyon University CityServe announced on Mar. 18 that it has served families more than 108,260 times as of January, marking a significant milestone for the campus-based outreach ministry.
The announcement highlights the growing impact of GCU CityServe’s efforts to address community needs by distributing basic necessities such as home goods, toiletries, and groceries. The initiative began almost four and a half years ago in partnership with CityServe International and has since expanded its reach throughout Arizona.
Nathan Cooper, director of GCU CityServe, said the distribution center has grown from about 35,000 square feet to approximately 88,800 square feet. “We have grown very quickly,” Cooper said. “I didn’t think we would hit that milestone in that short time. There is a lot of hurt happening in Phoenix and in the state of Arizona. We want to do whatever we can to alleviate that as much as we can.” Student volunteers play a key role in organizing shipments from major retailers like Walmart and Amazon for local partners.
Community members say GCU CityServe provides vital support during emergencies or hardship. Mariza Barron of Reborn Church described how the organization stepped up when her church needed help delivering food boxes: “He said, ‘Let’s do it, we can help you.’ Then he called (university) President Brian Mueller… We did 800 boxes in total.” Another recipient, Leslie Maldonado, credited GCU CityServe with helping her family furnish their new home: “It has been a definite blessing to our family… They helped me but then I was able to help others through them because I started volunteering at some of the distribution events.” Junior Dawson Hammond added: “We are seeing the growth in the community through what we are doing here. It has allowed me to serve others and the community in ways that are meaningful.”
According to the official website, Grand Canyon University operates in Phoenix as a private Christian educational institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs including nursing and business degrees with both on-campus and online options. The university is recognized for high rankings for its nursing programs among others. It centers on Christian values aimed at supporting students’ potential.
Looking ahead, GCU CityServe plans further expansion by developing technology refurbishment initiatives for K-12 students and strengthening partnerships with local companies such as Lectric eBikes.
