Because the article “U.S. ending extra help for groceries that started during COVID” (The Columbian, Feb. 23) provided a national focus, it’s important to include the state of our local community. The need has increased and the amount of food, time and other resources is not keeping pace, and as of March 1, federal pandemic programs ceased. Clark County Food Bank reports that 126,834 individuals sought food assistance last year. That is an increase of nearly 20,000 since 2019 and represents 1 in 4 Clark County residents.
I implore our community to step forward and help fill the gap to prevent our neighbor’s hunger. Food items can be dropped off at Clark County Food Bank’s 43 partner sites, donations can be made online and resources can be pooled by creating a food drive at your work, school, gym or other gathering places.
A drop-off food drive is being held at Mill Plain United Methodist Church, 15804 S.E. Mill Plain Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 18 to bring awareness and needed resources to the community. We are also asking our congregation to participate in a Lenten Food Drive Challenge. The need is great, please help where you can.
