When SNAP benefits weren’t available and with the government shutdown, we knew there were going to be more people in need of food. Even though SNAP benefits came through and the shutdown has ended, it doesn’t mean that the food insecurity crisis is gone. There are still many people in need of food in our communities. No one should be hungry. Access to food can be a challenge in South Tillamook County.
Jeremy Neel with Nestucca Fire said, “We know how deeply food scarcity impacts our community, and Nestucca Rural Fire Protection District is committed to helping however we can. The community room at Hebo Fire Station #87 is available on Sundays, and we’d be happy to host a pop-up food pantry day in November, ahead of Thanksgiving. Following that, our space will again be used to support the Lions Club’s annual Food and Toy Drive from Thanksgiving through Christmas. Our members will be assisting with those efforts as well.”
He continued, “Additionally, we’ve been in contact with GG’s House, a nonprofit organization in Forest Grove that provides assistance ranging from food and clothing to hygiene products and home supplies. I brought up the idea to them, and about 5 minutes ago, they stopped by my house and dropped off 200 pounds of non-perishable food, which I’ll be bringing in to help with this initiative. They’re planning to provide more in the coming weeks, if they are able to, to help support our local families throughout the fire district.
Our team is full of people who care deeply about this community, and we’re proud to be part of an effort that makes a real difference for our neighbors. Please let us know what next steps you’d like to take regarding the pop-up pantry coordination, and we’ll do our best to make it happen.”
We are making it happen! They have gathered OVER 500 POUNDS of food to distribute. Volunteers are needed to assist. If you need food, please come by Hebo Fire Station TOMORROW, SUNDAY NOVEMBER 16th from 1 to 3 pm. Please bring your own bags or boxes.
Tell your neighbors – Nestucca Rural Fire Protection District – taking care of their community. Pop-up food pantry – Hebo Fire Station Community Room – Sunday November 16th from 1 to 3 pm.