QUINCY — As the Quincy Community Food Bank embarks on a new chapter following 40 years of service, the organization is facing increased demand for food assistance while simultaneously planning a significant expansion of its facilities. The food bank, which has operated since 1988, has indicated that community support is crucial to its mission of ensuring that no one in the Quincy Valley goes hungry. 

“We’ve noticed an increase in the number of people seeking assistance this year, and every little bit helps,” food bank manager Teri Laney said.  

The food bank, which is open 9:30 a.m. to noon and 4:30 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, as well as Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to noon, serves thousands of individuals and families annually, providing them with nutritious food options and essential resources. 

Some items are especially needed, Laney said. 

“Any miscellaneous items are appreciated, particularly box dinners, pasta, and rice. We often run out of toiletries such as shampoo and toilet paper,” she said.  

Items like flour, sugar, and masa are also in high demand, as they allow the QCFB to create smaller, more manageable portions for the families it serves. 

The need for increased donations is further underscored by the food bank’s ambitious plan to construct a new 3,200-square-foot building that will come equipped with a freezer and cooler large enough to facilitate the efficient processing and storage of food. Laney noted that the current facility lacks sufficient space to store the food donations received from the community, limiting the QCFB’s ability to serve its clients effectively.  

“With the new warehouse space, we will be able to better manage our food supplies and support more families,” she said. 

The second phase of the plan involves remodeling the existing food bank to create a sheltered waiting area, allowing clients to stay out of inclement weather while they wait for assistance.  

“Our goal is to improve the client experience by providing them with more space and comfort,” said Laney. “The community deserves that, especially during times of need.” 

The projected cost of the new building is estimated at $600,000, and Laney revealed that the food bank is still in need of significant financial support to move forward with the project.  

“As of now, we’ve raised approximately $100,000 toward our $600,000 goal,” she said. “We’re hopeful that with continued support from the community, we can break ground this coming spring.” 

Community engagement has been strong, with numerous organizations and individuals stepping up to assist the food bank in its efforts. Recently, Grant County Fire District 3 conducted its annual food drive, collecting and donating nearly 1,600 pounds of food to the QCFB.  

“We are immensely grateful for the hard work and dedication of the fire district and all our partners,” Laney said. “Their contributions make a real difference in our ability to serve those in need.” 

In addition to food donations, monetary contributions are vital for funding the expansion project.  

“We encourage those who wish to support us to make donations through the Columbia Basin Foundation, as it helps streamline our fundraising efforts,” she said.  

Donations may be sent to the Columbia Basin Foundation, 101 Basin St. NW, Ephrata, WA 98823. More information can be found at cbfcommunity.org. 

The organization is also hosting an auction fundraiser on February 28. While specific details are still being finalized, Laney expressed optimism about the event's potential to generate additional funds for the food bank's ongoing initiatives. 

As the holiday season approaches, Laney urged the community to consider the needs of their neighbors.  

“It’s essential that we continue to come together to fight hunger. Together, we can bring hope to families in Quincy,” she said. 

    Although Grant County Fire District 3 was able to raise nearly 1,600 pounds of food for the Quincy Community Food Bank, there are still needs including box dinners, pasta, rice, shampoo and toilet paper.