St. Luke employees gather money, goods for local food banks

Employees of St. Luke Community Healthcare came together to collect and donate $500 and 2,020 pounds of non-perishable food to the food banks in Ronan, St. Ignatius and Polson, with a focus on holiday-related food items.

The donation marks the culmination of a monthlong competition between departments and clinics at St. Luke, making the good cause a fun one in the process. This competition has become a tradition for the local healthcare organization, as a way to give back to the communities that support the important work St. Luke does year-round.

The top four departments to bring the most items were treated to a pizza party. In addition to the food drive, each department created a donation box for the food. The most creative box was also treated to a pizza party. St. Luke recognizes that food drives are important to local food banks’ ability to provide food to the thousands of individuals they serve. Encouraging staff to donate during the holidays makes a difference in the lives of those in need in local communities.

“This donation is another demonstration of our staffs’ commitment to their communities, and to the healthcare needs that occur beyond the walls of this organization,” St. Luke CEO Steve Todd said. “Food security is a critical component of health. I am incredibly proud that our staff see that need and do what they can to help. I am thankful for all they do to help the communities they serve, in this way and a multitude of others.”