Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about Mandy's Project, our programs, and how you can help.
About Mandy's Project
Mandy's Project is an Arizona 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in memory of Mandy, a compassionate community advocate. Led by her daughter Samantha and supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, we provide direct support to immigrants, unhoused neighbors, and families impacted by ICE detention across the Phoenix area.
We run 12 active programs including Karma Bags (care packages for unhoused and immigrant community members), Ed's Food Pantry, Know Your Rights education, the Immigrant Welcome Center, Benny's Closet clothing donations, immigration bond assistance, legal support, family support, advocacy, rapid response, accompaniment, and senior center support.
People detained by ICE have not been convicted of any crime. They are held in immigration detention centers — not jails or prisons — and most detentions occur without due process, which the U.S. Constitution guarantees to all people regardless of citizenship. An immigration bond is a civil matter set by immigration authorities — it is not a criminal matter. When a community member is detained, their family often cannot afford the immigration bond required for release. We raise funds to pay these bonds directly, helping people return to their families while their immigration cases proceed. Every dollar donated goes toward these bonds.
Karma Bags are volunteer-assembled care packages containing food, water, toiletries, and heat relief supplies. They are distributed to unhoused and immigrant community members across Arizona, especially during extreme heat season.
Our Immigrant Welcome Center supports one of the 3 locations in Arizona where ICE brings people after being released from detention. We provide meals, showers, clothing, phone access, and rides to airports and bus stations so people can safely reunite with their families.
Our Rapid Response Network mobilizes volunteers quickly when ICE activity is reported in the community. We provide Know Your Rights information, legal referrals, and direct support to families affected by detention.
We welcome volunteers for Karma Bag assembly, food pantry deliveries, Know Your Rights education, accompaniment support, and more. Visit our Get Involved page to learn about current opportunities and sign up.
You can donate online through our secure donation page, which supports GoDaddy Payments. You can also donate via Zelle to sam@mandysproject.org. All donations go directly to our programs — we have no paid staff.
Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/profile.php?id=61589029386190 for updates on our programs, urgent needs, and community events.