POST FALLS — The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office teamed up with 3rd Ave. Marketplace and North Idaho Arms to kick off the season of giving on Tuesday.

A few dozen community members donated groceries and enjoyed coffee, tea and pastries from Kaffee Meister and La Tea Da. Tuesday’s food drive kickoff was also an opportunity for the community to connect with law enforcement personnel.

“Having the sheriff’s office spearhead this brought it to a whole new level,” said Leslie Orth, the executive director of 3rd Ave. Marketplace.

3rd Ave. Marketplace, a nonprofit in Post Falls, serves between 130-150 families a day, according to Orth. About half are young families just trying to make ends meet.

“The main thing is for the community to understand how dire the situation is,” Orth said. “It’s not just abject poverty; it’s also working middle-class families that are coming in.”

On average, a family working with 3rd Ave. Marketplace saves about $400 a month — which can ease the financial strains of rent and other bills, Orth added.

KCSO and North Idaho Arms were more than happy to aid in 3rd Ave. Marketplace’s mission.

“At some point in everybody’s life, you need help,” said Bryan Zielinski, the owner of North Idaho Arms. “What I want to be able to do is help pick somebody up and help them get back on their feet.”

Tuesday’s food drive event also offered perspective for attendees going into the holiday season.

“I think as citizens, we need to remember this isn’t just for the holidays,” said John Baer. “It’s year-round.” 

    3rd Place Marketplace executive director Leslie Orth (left) chats with Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris during Tuesday's food drive in Post Falls.