Maricopa Pantry Shocked as Top Ticket Holders Stumble

Ross Teeple fills up a box with food at Maricopa Pantry July 27, 2024. [Bryan Mordt]

Three Pinal County and state election candidates spent Saturday morning volunteering at Maricopa Pantry, helping distribute food to the community.

Pinal County Supervisor candidate Rich Vitiello, Pinal County Sheriff candidate Ross Teeple, and incumbent state Rep. Teresa Martinez, all Republicans, joined the effort to provide essential supplies to local residents.

Teeple, who first volunteered at the pantry on Thanksgiving, felt it was a memorable event. “It was one of the best days ever,” he said. “Since then, I’ve wanted to be out here helping.” Despite living in Florence, an hour and a half away, Teeple returned to assist with any tasks needed. “I’m in the acorn that becomes the oak,” he added.

Vitiello and Teeple, along with over a dozen other volunteers, packed boxes of diverse food items, ensuring each recipient received a variety. Vitiello emphasized his commitment to community service. “I like to give back to the community,” he said. “I’m always willing to help.”

Martinez also engaged actively, speaking with people in their cars to assess their food needs. She shared her volunteer experiences, mentioning her previous work with St. Mary’s food bank in Phoenix and another in Yuma. However, she noted the unique connections formed at Maricopa Pantry. “You don’t really get to connect with people like you do here,” Martinez observed.