I am writing on behalf of FISH Food Bank, where we are dedicated to alleviating hunger in Hood River County and the surrounding area. As summer approaches, we are preparing for what is likely to be the largest increase in clients in our 55-year history. Along with limited staff, we are fortunate to have the support of more than 400 community volunteers who ensure our food-insecure friends and neighbors have access to healthy and nutritious foods at our 20 monthly distributions.
Your generous financial support helps us to sustain this vital service.
FISH’s three food pantries — Hood River, Parkdale and Cascade Locks — serve approximately 600 families per month, representing more than 1,500 individuals. Comparing year to date statistics to 2023, we have seen a staggering increase in demand: Hood River alone has experienced an 80% rise in client requests, including a 60% increase in children. Additionally, we are witnessing a surge of clients over the age of 65.
FISH operates as an independent 501c3 nonprofit; we receive no monetary funds from federal, state or local governments. Although we gratefully receive some food donations from the Columbia Gorge Food Bank, Rosauers and Safeway, we purchase large amounts of food to keep the shelves stocked. We are able to procure these provisions with the financial help of a few generous grants and your contributions of $25, $50 and $100. Thank you!
We take pride in offering client choice shopping, allowing individuals to select food with a send of dignity, respecting cultural and dietary preferences. This is both empowering and less wasteful. With each donation of $100, we can ensure that every family leaves FISH with a grocery cart full of food, including fresh vegetables, fruit, eggs, milk, cheese and butter.
We encourage you to donate this summer to help provide food for the more than 600 families, including 400 children, FISH serves each month. Thank you for being part of the solution and helping to alleviate hunger in our community.
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Jacqueline Carey is executive director of FISH Food Bank in Hood River, located at 1130 Tucker Road, Hood River.
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