Food bank marks 45 years of fighting hunger

SANDPOINT — The Bonner Community Food Bank aims to end hunger, bite by bite, beginning with its 45th anniversary event — which is serving as both a celebration and a fundraiser.

The sold-out event, which will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. today at the Bonner County Fairgrounds, features small bites from local restaurants, silent and live auctions, and raffles. Proceeds will fund food bank programs.

The event is a chance to celebrate how far the food bank has come in its first 45 years — and raise funds to keep it going well into the future, said Debbie Love, executive director of the food bank.

“Over the past 45 years, we’ve expanded from a modest pantry into two full-service locations, now serving over 3,000 households every month,” she said. “We’re more than food assistance — we’re a vital hub for connection, collaboration and community strength.”

The anniversary celebration acknowledges that connection, Love said.

“It’s a meaningful reflection of how far we’ve come and a chance to renew the commitment of ending food insecurity in our community,” she said.

The food bank was launched in 1980 by a small group of community residents determined to feed those in need. Then known as the Ministerial Association, the food bank has called a variety of locations home over the years before purchasing its Culvers Drive location in 2011.

The nonprofit is dedicated to providing nutritious food resources to anyone in need at no charge. It charges no fees to participants and is funded entirely by donations and grants. Walk-ins are encouraged, and every effort is made to welcome and support guests through times of crisis.

“We know that hard times can happen to anyone at any time,” Love said. “We address the shame that may be present around asking for help by filling the process with dignity and choice from start to finish.”

In Bonner County, a significant percentage of the population struggles with hunger. In 2017, the food bank helped more than 900 area families each month. By 2021, that number had increased to an average of 1,020 families monthly. In 2022, the number rose again to about 1,350 families between the two facilities — one in Sandpoint and the other in Priest River.

Between 2022 and 2024, the need for food bank services increased by 53%. Today, roughly 3,000 households receive assistance each month.

While a common misconception suggests those who use a food bank are lazy, Love said that’s far from the case. Most are working poor or turn to the food bank when they’ve run out of options.

“We have people coming in all the time not wanting to, but they don’t have anywhere else to go,” Love said. “They’re very prideful people, especially the older generation. They grew up during the Depression or in a time when they utilized every little thing. So when they get to that point, they think, ‘Oh, a can of soup is just fine.’ But really, that’s the only thing they have in their cupboard.”

Love said she works to get as much fresh produce as possible, with local gardeners helping keep the food bank stocked over the summer with a variety of vegetables.

A “grocery rescue program” allows local stores to donate items nearing the end of their shelf life — but still good — to the food bank. A partnership with Litehouse Foods helped create a shopping list that potential donors can download from the food bank’s website or Facebook page.

Those unable to attend the event but wishing to support the food bank are encouraged to do so. Volunteers and donations — both monetary and food staples — are always needed and appreciated.

Among the most-needed items are peanut butter, tuna, canned meat, canned pasta, canned tomato sauce and canned pasta sauce. Baking supplies and seasonings are also welcome. Fresh produce and fruit from gardens can be dropped off at the food bank, or arrangements can be made for pickup, Love said.

Restaurants participating in the event include Beet and Basil, Marigold Bistro, Pack River Store, Spud’s Waterfront Grill, Joe’s Philly Cheesesteak, Sweet Lou’s, 113 Main, The Klondyke Club, Arlo’s Ristorante, Flavors of Phoenicia, The Cakery on First and Vicki Rae’s Pizza.

Beer and spirits are being provided by 219 Lounge, Matchwood Brewing Co. and Timber Town Beer Co.

For more information about the food bank or how to help, visit bonnerfoodbank.org or call 208-263-3663.