North County Community Food Bank (NCCFB) is experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand, with eight or more families seeking assistance weekly. To help meet this growing need, a donor has pledged to provide an $8,000 matching fund, Executive Director Elizabeth Cerveny said in an email.
The $8,000 would help purchase supplies, as NCCFB has recently experienced lower food distribution and supply availability, which has strained the food bank’s offerings. The organization needs to raise $8,000 by Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025, Cerveny said.
“Everyone is experiencing the extreme jump in grocery costs, and this is no different for us [NCCFB] as well. With the demand being much higher, we can’t provide as much food to families and seniors in need as we have in the past,” Cerveny stated.
Community members and businesses who wish to support NCCFB in reaching the $8,000 goal are encouraged to make monetary donations. Though material donations are welcomed, the food bank can turn a $5 monetary donation into $50 worth of supplies through their low-cost channels, Cerveny said.
Monetary donations and items, such as nonperishables, produce, packaged meals and more may be made online at nccfoodbank.org/donate.
Volunteers are welcome to join NCCFB for a weekday shift. A variety of tasks are available, such as shelf stocking, office work, public relations and other special projects. Volunteers may register online at nccfoodbank.org/volunteer.
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 1:30-3:15 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.
