Market shoppers can help fight hunger

During the month of December, shoppers at Bend’s Newport Avenue Market will donate money to ensure that their neighbors have access to a nutritious meal in February, when food stores are historically low and the need for food assistance is high.

Now in its sixth year, Newport Avenue Market’s “Food for February” fundraiser invites customers starting Dec. 1 to donate any dollar amount they choose at check-out to the Family Kitchen, a volunteer-driven nonprofit that serves seven nutritious, no-cost meals in Bend each week. The market then matches 100 percent of the money raised, up to $25,000.

Since 2011, Food for February has raised nearly $135,000 for hungry families in Central Oregon, including $64,000 in matching funds from Newport Avenue Market. In 2015 alone, the holiday fundraiser generated $56,000 to fight food insecurity.

“It is not commonly known that February is one of the most difficult months for hungry families in Central Oregon,” said Lauren Johnson, CEO of Newport Avenue Market. “Money is tight after the holidays, donations dwindle and food pantries are depleted.”

By working with Unified Grocers and other in-store brands, Newport is able to stretch the value of each donated dollar by purchasing food items, including dairy, meats and fresh fruits and vegetables, in bulk at wholesale prices.

“Food for February represents Family’s Kitchen largest in-kind donation, and provides quality protein ingredients for nearly an entire year’s worth of meals for hungry neighbors who need extra help,” said Donna Burklo, Family Kitchen’s part-time development and marketing director. “Knowing the entire community pitched in to make it all happen adds a level of respect that our diners don’t often feel.”

Newport Avenue Market shoppers may participate in the fundraiser from Dec. 1 through Dec. 31 by letting the cashier at the register know how much they’d like to contribute. Shoppers can then write their names on a provided paper plate, which will be displayed in the store all month long.

“Food for February has been successful because of Newport’s loyal and giving customers who play a critical role in supporting the program,” said Johnson. “We can always count on our customers to support our community with their generosity.”