KIM'S PICKS: Local Food Banks (They Need Your Help)

On Saturday night, I attended the Get Involved Gala (GIG) benefit at the Tacoma Art Museum that was sponsored by Project: U, a program that helps benefit the Pierce County United Way.

While I enjoyed the festivities, the big takeaway for me was a message delivered by a message of the FISH Food Banks of Pierce County Board of Directors, Sandy Roszman. She delivered a startling and sobering message about hunger in our area. The need in our county for food assistance is great - demand is up by a staggering 50 percent.

A great need, indeed.

I believe in my community and our ability to help those who need food. I've lived in this area most of my life; time and time again, I see local folks rise to the occasion to help.

That's why this week's picks highlight our local food banks and how we all can help:

Families Unlimited Network (University Place)

Why here: Established in 2003, this center's food bank offers food assistance for all Pierce County residents. In addition to non-perishable food, fresh foods (like fruits and vegetables) are also available. This food bank welcomes your donations. Please see the instructions on the website regarding non-perishable and perishable food donations. In addition to providing food at the food bank, there are family services and after school tutoring and care. Interested in volunteering? Contact the office and let them know how you can help. The link above will give you everything you need to know about hours, contact information, and services.

FISH Food Banks of Pierce County (various locations Pierce County, see below or use the link)

Why here: FISH Food Banks of Pierce County has been serving Pierce County clients since 1973. It takes many volunteers, time and donations to keep this longtime food provider helping those in need. FISH is always on the lookout for those willing to donate their time and talents, as well as donations of non-perishable foods. Please see the website for more details. The food bank centers are located in various locations in Pierce County (Edgewood, Gig Harbor, Puyallup, the Key Peninsula, Lakewood, and Tacoma). In a couple of the locations, there is a clothing bank as well. Please see the aforementioned link to see the specific addresses, hours, and services provided. For Gig Harbor FISH, please click here.

Salvation Army Food Bank (Tacoma)

Why here: This organization has been serving the local community for 122 years. Besides the many services they provide (shelters, crisis intervention, and other vital emergency services), food is a critical part of helping clients in need. Besides food, household items are available as well at the food bank open six days per week (hours vary). Volunteers are also welcomed and needed (over 2,000 people last year volunteered at the Salvation Army in various roles). To donate food or make a monetary donation, please see the website link above or contact the organization directly. Their phone number and e-mail address is provided on the website.

St. Leo Food Connection (Tacoma)

Why here: Considered one of the largest food banks in Pierce County, this organization has been helping people in need since 1982. The food bank operates in two ways: there is a permanent location and they also have a mobile food bank as well in order to serve and get to more clients who need them. Besides your food donations, this organization is looking for volunteers to help cook sample meals, recruit home gardeners to donate fresh produce, and so much more. The link above will give you all the information you need to get started.

Patch readers, do you have a story to share about helping with hunger? A succesful food drive? A special volunteer? An inspirational story? We'd love to hear from you.

Don't forget that our food banks need our help year round. Thank you in advance for your giving and generosity, Pierce County!