North County Food Bank (NCFB) is pleased to announce that Tillamook County granted the organization a building permit to construct a new food distribution center near Nehalem. Contract negotiations are underway, and the board expects to sign a contract within the next week. Infrastructure development will commence soon after.
For 33 years, NCFB served clients from the basement of the former Wheeler Hospital. The food bank moved out of the deteriorating building in late 2025 so that Nehalem Bay Health District could proceed with their demolition plans.
“The health district generously rented part of the former Nehalem Bay Clinic and Pharmacy to us as our temporary home while we build the new distribution center, “said Jeannette Woodhull, NCFB’s president. The food bank will continue to serve Tillamook County residents from that location, 230 Rowe Street in Wheeler, until the new building is completed.
NCFB’s new, 1600 sq. ft. wood-frame building is designed by local architect Jim Fanjoy at Viridian Architecture, and Cove Built, LLC will be the lead contractor. The fully ADA accessible building will be located directly behind the Hope Chest Thrift Shop on Hwy 101 South, between Nehalem and Manzanita. Cove Built expects to complete the structure by late spring 2027.
“The community likely has seen our sign at the entrance to the property,” said NCFB President Jeannette Woodhull. “We look forward to distributing food in a welcoming space that is bright, warm, and respectful to all.”
The food distribution building will take up only a small part of the one-acre site. The remaining vacant land will be available as the vision for a community services hub evolves. The current project includes utilities sized for future expansion.
NCFB has raised 85% of their funding goal. Currently, $230,000 is still needed to fully complete the project. Community members wishing to assist with the final 15% are encouraged to reach out to NCFB for more information.
“The food bank appreciates all who have worked toward creating a permanent home for food distribution in North County. We especially want to thank our previous board members who have worked for years and our current board members who are working to make this a reality,” Woodhull added. “Our gratitude goes out to the generous community that supports us to make sure people do not go hungry.”
For more information, contact the food bank at 503-368-7724 or northtillamookcountyfoodbank@gmail.com, or use the contact form at www.northtillamookcountyfoodbank.org.
