|
The Okanogan
County Food Bank Network is made up of seven (7) all-volunteer organizations
dedicated to helping families feed themselves. The Food Banks function
under the direction of volunteer Boards, and rely on community volunteers to
serve their local residents. Most Food Banks are open one day a week for
two to three hours. Omak and Okanogan Food Banks are open two days a week.
Donated food from the separate communities make up approximately one half of
all food given out. The other half is a combination of donated and
purchased food which comes through Community Action from various state and
federal feeding programs. Food Banks that participate in these programs, report statistical information to Community Action on a
monthly basis.
There is a wide
variation in the number of families served in any month throughout the
county. In general, the number of families using Food Banks goes up in
direct relation to unemployment in the county, and goes down when there is
work. It is estimated that our Food Bank Network serves 4,500 families each
year. Several years ago, Community Action estimated that approximately one
third of those using Food Banks were elderly or disabled persons living on
fixed incomes and one half were families working seasonal jobs.
The amount of
food given to a family depends on the family size, and usually includes
basic staples like bread, fruit, vegetables, a protein item (Beans, canned
meats or fish), and rice or potatoes. While the Food Banks attempt to
provide a balance of foods, there is often not enough variety to insure a
balanced diet. It is the intention of all Food Banks to provide basic food
which can help feed families - but not be the primary food source for those
in need.
All the Food
Banks provide information about other services available in the community to
help those in need. Traditionally, some of the strongest supporters of the
local Food Banks have been churches (who donate space, food, money and
volunteer time), businesses (with donations of food and money) and special
food drives taken on by schools, local clubs and organizations. Without
this local effort, Food Banks would not exist to serve those who are not
able to meet their basic needs.
|
