The North County Food Bank (NCFB) Board of Directors is excited to announce that we have purchased a tract of land for construction of a new food and clothing bank. The property meets a variety of checkpoints for the board – location on the bus route, level/easy access, out of the tsunami zone, and accessible to a mass care site in the event of a disaster.
The location, on Highway 101 behind the Hope Chest, will feature ample parking, accessibility, room for expansion. Board president Jacqueline McCrady stated, “A new building will let us serve clients with dignity in a facility that is more comfortable for both our clients and volunteers.“
As many of you know, the Nehalem Bay Health District (NBHD) has provided facilities at below-market rent to the NCFB for over 30 years – we are most grateful for the support and relationship. You also know that the building has deteriorated and that the Health District wants to demolish the building and construct affordable housing. We are thankful that the NBHD has been gracious and accommodating as we search out a solution to ensure the longevity of the NCFB.
During the past few years, the board and other community members searched for an existing building that could house the NCFB. This search yielded no viable solutions. We purchased the land for a below-market price, and the former owner completed several improvements to meet our purchase requirements. There is an easement on the west side of the Hope Chest that will provide NCFB access without impeding Hope Chest operations.
Currently the NCFB provides a week’s worth of food to an average of 700 adults and children per month, sometimes serving over 800 persons. As Board President Jacqueline McCrady said “We are seeing more demand for our services the past two years.” In addition, between 150 and 200 people visit the clothing bank each month. The need for food and clothing support has increased significantly, and we want to be poised to help ensure food and clothing security for all.
We plan to access federal, state and local grants to cover the bulk of building costs during the next 18 months. There will also be a capital campaign fundraising effort – those details will be forthcoming.
If you’d like to help North County Food Bank serve our neighbors in need, you can donate online at the NCFB website or mail checks to NCFB, PO Box 162, Wheeler, OR 97147. If you want to restrict donations to the building fund, please note that.