Local bands unite for Bands for Bread benefit concert

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) --- Nine local bands will perform at Bands for Bread, a free benefit concert to fight food insecurity, on Friday, July 31. The second annual event takes place from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Boneyard Pub in Bend, Oregon, and supports the efforts of St. Vincent de Paul - Bend.

Boneyard Pub will donate $1 for every beer sold during the event to the nonprofit organization.

Paul - Bend is a social service nonprofit that operates one of the largest food pantries in Central Oregon, serving more than 30,000 individuals annually. The Bands for Bread event also includes merch sales, a silent auction and raffle prizes to raise additional funds.

Last year, the benefit concert raised $2,324 when it was held at Bend Brewing Company, despite facing wind, rain and snow.

The idea for Bands for Bread originated from Jonah, a member of the local band Long Operators. Jonah started the effort after the passing of his grandfather, a preacher in the Seattle archdiocese. He sought ways to perform service and learned about his own family's past reliance on Paul.

“I had been thinking for a couple of years since his passing of ways to do something of service,” Jonah said. The plan for the event solidified after discussions with his mother.

Sue Shea, Board Chair of Paul - Bend, expressed the significant need for community support. “Our needs are great and sometimes overwhelming and this effort will have a huge impact,” Shea said.

The nonprofit also provides additional programs, including low-income rentals, a high-barrier shelter and support services for neighbors in need. Kaylee Graham serves as the Executive Director of Paul - Bend.

Bands for Bread started as an Instagram direct message from Jonah to Paul. The event, now in its second year, has gained community support and grown since its inception.

For more information, follow Bands for Bread on Instagram and Paul - Bend on Facebook. Inquiries can also be sent via email to stvincentbend@gmail.com.