The rising cost of food and housing is worsening food insecurity in Oregon, Southwest Washington and across the country. Last year, we saw 1.9 million visits to food assistance sites through the Oregon Food Bank Network — a 14% increase from the previous year. We are seeing record numbers of visits.
Driven by the ongoing economic fallout of COVID-19 and sunsetting pandemic safety nets, the rising cost of food and housing, and entrenched systems that perpetuate poverty, we are in an ongoing hunger crisis and it is not slowing down.
Our Network of 21 regional food banks and more than 1,400 free food markets, pantries, meal sites and delivery programs moves mountains to ensure food remains available to all who need it. And everyone is welcome — regardless of race, gender, religion or immigration status. Our strength is this Network, which sourced and distributed over 87 million meals worth of food (104 million pounds) last year — emphasizing fresh produce, dairy, protein and pantry staples.
This year, we're celebrating the 21st anniversary of the KGW Great Food Drive, and getting involved has never been more important.
For every dollar you donate, Oregon Food Bank can provide three meals worth of food — much more than an individual shopper can purchase at the store. Equally important is your time — our Network runs on volunteer power and our anti-hunger advocacy efforts depend on community members reaching out and making our priorities known.
We hope everyone able will join us and contribute in whatever way is meaningful to you. Together, we can end hunger for good in our communities!
Support the Great Food Drive
