Hello Ken,
At the beginning of May, Nourish CEO, Sue Potter, had the honor of speaking with reporter Craig Sailor of the Tacoma News Tribune.
Inflation has hit food banks coming and going. Food prices are driving more people to seek food assistance while incoming food donations have lessened. Like the public, food banks are spending more on food. And less food is coming in through the USDA’s emergency food assistance program, Potter said.
“Grocery stores are cutting back on what they’re stocking because prices are so high for food,” she said. Grocery stores often donate food that [is nearing] its sell-by date but is still fit for human consumption. But less stock means fewer donations.
Nourish buys between 12 and 15 semi truck loads of food per year. Products like canned corn and soups.
“In the past, we could do that with about $500,000,” Potter said. “Now those same truckloads cost about 30 to 40 percent more.”
Nourish increased its food budget to $700,000 in 2024 but, Potter said, the food bank needs $1.8 million to meet current demand.
Since this article, Nourish has seen an outpouring of support from the community. One monthly donor called to increase his donation, saying "I read the article and it's so sad." He wanted to do all he could to help with this crisis. Others donated during our recent GiveBIG campaign, raising over $6,000, more than we ever have before.
Thank you for continuing to support Nourish, we couldn't meet this growing need without you!
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