Phoenix venue offers 1 free meal a day for SNAP card carriers facing food insecurity

PHOENIX — The Pemberton, a popular venue in downtown Phoenix, is doing more than serving cocktails and throwing parties  — now, it’s also providing aid to those who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The space near Central Avenue and Portland Street started offering free meals to SNAP card holders on Wednesday, according to Pemberton President Brianna Schmaltz.

“It will be one free meal per (SNAP) card per day,” Schmaltz told KTAR News 92.3 FM on Thursday. “We don’t have an end date.”

Why is the Pemberton in downtown Phoenix offering free meals?

The Pemberton made the decision because the Trump administration said SNAP benefits would be suspended starting Saturday if the federal government shutdown isn’t resolved by then.

Since 12.2% of Arizonans rely on SNAP benefits, many recipients who already live paycheck to paycheck are struggling, Schmaltz said.

“My management team, in our meeting yesterday, came up with this idea of just what’s the best and quickest way to get resources to our community,” she said.

Any guests who present their SNAP card will receive two tacos and an order of chips and salsa. It’s a per-person deal.

The Pemberton is a 21+ venue, so meals will only be provided to those who are 21 or older.

What is the Pemberton in downtown Phoenix known for?

The Pemberton is known for its swimming pool parties, live DJs, hidden bars and immersive art.

It functions as an outdoor entertainment venue where guests can drink cocktails, eat various foods and walk through an outdoor maze full of art and bars themed after Japan, New York, Italy, Mexico and more.

It first opened in 2021 as a community gathering space. It briefly closed due to a massive remodeling project and reopened in its current form in March.

If you are dealing with food insecurity or want to help those who are, the Arizona Food Bank Network website has a list of available resources, including a database of food banks, pantries and soup kitchens that serve people in need and accept donations. Additionally, donations can be made by texting “FOOD” to 620620.

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