Food bank fundraiser to match donations

With a “10 million in 10 years” theme, the Town Pump Charitable Foundation seeks to raise over $2 million this year during its 10th annual fundraising campaign for Montana food banks – and break the $10 million mark during the life of the campaign.

Food bank representatives locally and statewide report an ever-growing demand to feed the hungry in Montana. Nearly 60 food banks, more than ever before, are participating in the “Be A Friend in Deed, Helping Those In Need” campaign this year.

The campaign has raised over $8.5 million for food banks statewide in nine years, including $1.4 million in matching grants from the Town Pump Charitable Foundation. As part of this year’s campaign, the Town Pump Charitable Foundation will match up to $400,000 in contributions to Montana food banks made now through Nov. 30. That amount is $50,000 more than last year.

The Foundation will match up to $5,000 on behalf of Loaves and Fish Food Pantry in Polson and $5,000 on behalf of the Bread Basket Food Pantry in Ronan.

The money is used to purchase perishable food items such as milk, bread, fruit and vegetables. Also, the funds are becoming more crucial in helping many food bank organizations simply stay open through payment of rent, utilities and space for storage, refrigeration and freezing.

The Loaves and Fish Food Pantry in Polson used money raised in previous Town Pump campaigns to help it purchase property to build a new facility.

The pantry’s operations manager Brian River said the new, larger facility was needed to help the pantry meet a growing need.

“A lot of people come in who’ve never been to a food bank before,” he said.

River added senior citizens who need some food assistance are often too proud to come in. He encouraged them to do so. “That’s what we’re here for — emergency food needs.”

“During this tough economy, more and more Montana families don’t have enough to eat,” said Maureen Kenneally, of the Town Pump Foundation. “With our 10th annual fundraiser, Town Pump remains passionately committed to Montana food banks as they work to meet this growing demand. Please join us in helping our neighbors. Together we make a difference.”

Donations for the campaign are being collected at the local Town Pumps. Donations can also be sent directly to Loaves and Fish Food Pantry in Polson, 904 First Street East, 59860, and to the Bread Basket Food Pantry in Ronan at 10 6th Ave. SW, 59864.