The GreenHouse Food Bank in Deer Park announced a critical resource shortage and suspended one of its weekly services. There is currently a significant need for community support to meet rising demand.
The GreenHouse Food Bank is facing a significant shortage of resources, which is impacting its ability to provide all its services. While the food bank continues to offer monthly food boxes, it has suspended the weekly “porch” shopping option due to increased demand and limited supplies.
The GreenHouse Food Bank, supported by a team of 55 volunteers, has prioritized the distribution of monthly food boxes, ensuring clients receive substantial support. The grocery rescue van team has been working to provide more meat than other local food pantries.
Food banks across Eastern Washington, including the GreenHouse, have seen a surge in demand. The GreenHouse partners with organizations like the Second Harvest for supplies, but the variety of available items, particularly shelf-stable foods, has decreased. Spokane County Commissioner Josh Kerns noted that while Second Harvest can provide fresh produce, the shortage of non-perishable items is a significant issue, as the current demand surpasses 2023 levels.
Local support is essential to help meet growing needs. The GreenHouse Food Bank has outlined several ways the community can assist.
Current Needs:
- Food Items: Cereal, pancake mix/syrup, refried beans, chili, canned beans, tuna, canned chicken, oats, canned tomatoes/sauce, canned/boxed milk, baking needs (flour, sugar), soup (except chicken noodles), ramen, Carnation instant breakfast powders.
- Other Items: Wearable clothing, zero-degree sleeping bags, computer equipment (new enough to run current software), and can openers.
- Financial Contributions: Every gift given, large or small, makes a difference in fighting hunger in our community. Monetary donations can be made online at Greenhousedp.com/donate.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Current available positions are Carts/Restocking (PM shift), Stocking/Sorting/Cleaning (AM shift), Clothing Bank Prep (AM shift), Clothing Bank Distribution (PM shift), Grant Writers (training provided), and Substitute Van Drivers (AM shift).
Volunteers can apply through the GreenHouse Food Bank’s website at Greenhousedp.com/volunteer. Additionally, community-led food drives, such as a recent one by The Vine Community Church, are encouraged to help increase supplies.
Donation Drop-Off Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 8:30am – 11:30am. They mentioned that if you would like a donation receipt, please ask them for one.
For more information on how to help or to donate, visit GreenHouse Food Bank’s website at Greenhousedp.com.
Sources:
- GreenHouse Food Bank. “Important Update: Monthly Food Box Program at GreenHouse Food Bank – Greenhouse Food Bank & Clothing Bank | Deer Park.” GreenHouse Food Bank, 16 May 2024, Greenhousedp.com/2024/05/16/important-update-monthly-food-box-program-at-greenhouse-food-bank/. Accessed 22 May 2024.
