The North County Community Food Bank (NCCFB) buzzed with activity last week, with shelves and carts overflowing with food and volunteers tirelessly working to assemble supplies for those in need.
For Executive Director Elizabeth Cerveny, the bustling scene was a stark reminder of how much food insecurity has grown. The food bank serves more than 900 families each month and enrolls eight to 10 new households every week. This year alone, NCCFB has spent $150,000 on food purchases, relying entirely on community donations to meet the need.
“I think there's a misconception out there that we're supported by the government,” Cerveny said. “Any food bank for that matter, all of us are our own entities. Some food pantries operate under the umbrellas of churches and other organizations, but ours is a standalone nonprofit organization that has been in place since the ’80s. The funding comes through our very dedicated and supportive private donors … Somehow, year after year, we make it work.”
Cerveny said demand has never been higher. She explained that many of those turning to the food bank are young families just starting out, struggling to navigate rising living costs. Inflation has made it harder for families to afford basics like groceries and utilities.
“There's a lot of misperceptions in terms of who we serve and why,” she said. “The individuals that we're serving — the majority of them are holding down one to two jobs. It’s the working poor in America that are just getting by. It’s not people that don’t choose to work by any means. These are people who are struggling. We have to open up our minds and our hearts to better understand that issue on a national level and not make rash judgments based on a two-second drive-by of who we’re serving and why.”
In early November, a private donor pledged an $8,000 matching grant to help meet the growing need. Cerveny set a goal of raising $8,000 in donations to match the grant, with funds earmarked for building operations and food purchases. She encouraged donors to contribute monetary support or food items and essentials. Peanut butter and tuna are in high demand, Cerveny said.
Even with the help of 72 volunteers, NCCFB still has room for more hands to meet the increasing demand. Cerveny urged anyone with available time to consider volunteering.
“It's a place of warmth, family and immediate reward that brings joy. It's a welcoming place where newly retired [people] can network and meet people of similar passions, and I always enjoy it,” Cerveny said.
Monetary donations and items, such as nonperishables, produce, packaged meals and more may be made online at nccfoodbank.org/donate.
NCCFB is open from 9 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Monday through Friday at 17 NE Third Ave. in Battle Ground. The food bank is also open from 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Curbside drive-thru pickup services are available. For additional information, visit the website, nccfoodbank.org, or call 360-687-5007.
