Campaigning by local leaders has yielded over 267,000 donated bottles of water since June for the Mesa Hydration Donation Campaign’s One Ton Water Challenge.

The goal is to reach 500,000 bottles by Sept. 15.

Collaborating on the program are the city of Mesa, the Mesa Chamber of Commerce and United Food Bank. The concept of the challenge arose during a brainstorming session, according to Mesa Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Sally Harrison.

The entities motivated residents and businesses to contribute water during the summer months when Arizona temperatures become extreme, according to a press release. 

“If our members all stepped up to the challenge or partnered with others to take the challenge it would be a huge success and we would reach our goal of collecting 500,000 bottles of water,” Harrison said in the release.

 Mesa Mayor John Giles said that businesses and residents have been “extremely generous.”

United Food Bank President Dave Richins encouraged groups to band together and purchase pallets of water bottles.

“We all know it’s extremely hot outside and members in our community need water as the heat of summer continues," Richins said. "Get your neighbors together, accept the One Ton Challenge and for under $150 you can quench the thirst of those who need it most.”  

Mesa residents can continue to donate bottled water. One pallet contributes approximately 2,000 bottles. Contact United Food Bank at 480-398-4464 or visit www.mesaaz.gov/H2Omesa for more information.