In an effort to support an increased demand for food at the city’s food banks, City of Mountlake Terrace employees have banded together to launch a food drive to help replenish the supply.
“It’s important for us to help give back to our community as many of our residents are in need,” stated Community Relations Director Virginia Olsen. “We have two food banks in town and the School District Foundation’s Weekend Meal Program that can really use more donations given the high demand due to the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy Order.”
If the community would like to donate items, please bring non-perishable items to City Hall located at 6100 219th Street SW #200 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) through May 29. Since the lobby is not open to the public, please add to the box that we will place outside the door. If you would prefer to donate directly, please visit the organizations’ websites to see what days and times they are staffed to receive donations. Some of the organizations also accept online donations in lieu of food.
The city will donate to the following organizations: Concern for Neighbors Food Bank (4700 228th Street SW), Cedarwood International Food Bank (Bethel Chapel, 23010 66th Avenue West) and the Foundation for Edmonds School District Nourishing Network.
More than 650 Edmonds School District students experience homelessness during the school year, and on average 33 percent of families qualify for free and reduced federal lunch programs. According to the Foundation’s Director, Thame Fuller, their biggest need right now is the weekend meal program which feeds about 300 children that normally receive meals at school during the week and have no regular meals on weekends. Mr. Fuller added that they are anticipating the number will increase to about 400 kids per week.
In addition to general non-perishable items for the food banks, the Foundation is especially in need of single serving, ready-to-eat foods that require no or minimal heating or preparation. One of their most desired items is Ramen Noodles. Please make sure donated items are not expired, home canned or rusty.
For more information about the food drive, please contact Community Relations Director Virginia Olsen at 425-744-6206 or volsen@ci.mlt.wa.us.
###