Dan Maldonado, the founder of Goar Park Lunches in Bisbee, was dismissed in February, sparking false rumors about drug use and embezzlement, which he has vehemently denied. Liza Kovach, chairwoman of Healthy Bisbee, which oversees Goar Park Lunches, said the rumors were false and were not the reasons his employment ended, but she would not be specific about the details.
Although saddened by his departure, he has since taken on a new role as the chef for Cochise Harm Reduction, where he continues to serve the homeless community. Meanwhile, Goar Park Lunches remains operational under new director Ryan Nixon, who oversees meal preparations and services for those in need.