With more people in our community’s experiencing food insecurity, organizations throughout the county have stepped up to provide increased access and opportunities to get more food onto more tables. In south Tillamook County, Nestucca Fire hosted two “pop up food pantries” and distributed nearly 2,000 pounds of food. South Tillamook County has limited access to food pantries and community members have recognized the need for a “free little food pantry”, a school food pantry and other programs. See the list below for Tillamook County food pantry locations, days/times.
There are also holiday food and toy programs taking donations as well. If you are interested in donating to these programs or would like to assist/volunteer, reach out to editor@tillamookcountypioneer.net. Or check out the Giving Guide for more information.
From NRFPD Training Officer, Jeremy Neel (the main organizer for these events):
I wanted to share my appreciation on behalf of our fire district for the opportunity to support the South County Pop-Up Food Pantry. It was a privilege to stand alongside our community in a way that looked a little different from our everyday work. It reflects our same mission at its core, helping people when they need it most.
Thanks to the generosity of GG’s House, another 1,200 pounds of food was donated for Sunday’s event, and all of it went directly into the hands of our local families. The variety was incredible: pantry staples, toiletries, baby formula, and even pet food. There were also fresh produce and ingredients to help families prepare Thanksgiving meals, including squash, green beans, sweet potatoes, bread flour, and stuffing. Local families also contributed food donations last week and again this week, showing how strongly our community steps up for its neighbors. The relief and gratitude expressed by those who stopped in were moving. Even with assistance programs in place, many shared how they continue to struggle with food insecurity and stated that the support truly made a difference.
Although we did not have volunteers join us this week, last week we were fortunate to have several NRFPD volunteers and a few South County CERT members helping at the pop-up. The small amount of food remaining has been passed forward to the Lion’s Club for their Christmas Basket Food & Toy Drive, ensuring nothing goes to waste and the impact continues into the holiday season. I’ve attached a few photos to share how incredible the food donations were. The unopened boxes under the tables were also packed with food.
Thank you again for inviting us to be part of such meaningful work. Experiences like this reinforce how strong and resilient our community is, and how much can be accomplished when we come together to care for one another.
Thank you, Nestucca Fire for taking care of our communities.