The North County Food Bank, based in Wheeler, received notice that it must vacate its current location in October. In anticipation of this change, the Food Bank searched over a year for an existing buildings that would meet our storage and distribution needs. This search proved fruitless, and the Food Bank purchased property to build a new building. The owner graciously sold the property at a below-market rate.
The property is located off Highway 101 in Nehalem, behind the Hope Chest Thrift Store. The Food Bank has obtained necessary permits from the City of Nehalem and the Oregon Department of Transportation. Crews are now working to develop an access driveway to the location and a parking area. Soon, work will begin on bringing utilities onto the site. We are actively exploring ways to make the project more affordable and quicker to complete.
Due to strong fiscal management and the knowledge that this day would come, the Food Bank has sufficient funds to begin the project. We will be seeking grants, in-kind donations, and fiscal donations as we continue to work on the site and building. After over 30 years in the community, we want to make sure we make this change in a way that ensures the Food Bank is operational for as long as necessary.
The Food Bank hopes to be able to complete the building this year. However, there could be a closure of several months. It is hoped that any closure will be short and that services are not interrupted. We are actively exploring ways to make the project more affordable and quicker to complete.
We will work with other local organizations addressing food insecurity to mitigate the increased demand that they will experience. We will communicate any changes via press releases, BBQ, social media, and signage at the Food Bank.
The Food Bank continues to see an increase in families accessing our services. With cuts planned for SNAP (food stamps) and Medicaid, the Food Bank anticipates that more and more families will be seeking help. On May 20, a record 69 families received food, pet food, diapers, hygiene items, and clothing.
We rely on support from the local community to make sure our neighbors do not go hungry. If you’d like to contribute to the Food Bank, please mail a check to PO Box 162, Wheeler, OR 97147 or visit our website at https://www.northtillamookcountyfoodbank.org.