‘Times are harder now’: La Pine Community Kitchen hosting Labor Day food drive to address drop in donations
Jillian Fortner
(update: Adding video, adding comments from kitchen guests, kitchen manager)
LA PINE, Ore. (KTVZ) – La Pine Community Kitchen is calling on the community to rally together this Labor Day for a Canned Food Drive and BBQ. They hope to bring people together for a day of food and fellowship, while helping restock shelves for neighbors in need.
Organizers say shelf-stable food donations have dropped in recent months as more families are turning to the nonprofit for support. Right now, the kitchen’s shelves are running low.
“They’re up about 40% from last year. That’s a huge increase,” said Mistie Manning, Kitchen Manager. “When we were doing approximately 40 lunches, we are now doing 100.”
The nonprofit provides food, clothing, and hygiene products to the community, running on grants, donations, and volunteers.
For many guests, the kitchen provides more than just meals, it’s a sense of security.
“It’s really been a big blessing, and have extra groceries that we can use. Saving $100 that can go to gas, just for traveling, commuting. My wife and I both work, so, it’s very helpful to have that,” said La Pine Resident, Matthew.
And beyond the meals, it creates a sense of community.
“When you’re single and older and you want to stay involved in the community, this is a place to meet people. It keeps you involved,” said La Pine resident, James Walden.
But when donations run low, staff worry about how long they can keep it up.
“We’re being creative. Luckily we have some back stock, a freezer, some items, but we’re really reaching out to the community.” said Manning.
La Pine Community Kitchen is asking for help to continue supporting neighbors in need, accepting canned goods, nonperishable items, or cash donations.
“Times are harder now, and they’re getting harder. More people need these kinds of services. So if you can donate that is really a good thing,” said Karen Rippberger from La Pine Chamber of Commerce.
La Pine Community Kitchen says every donation makes a difference in ensuring no one in the community goes hungry.
“We really would hope that more people that that live here would stop by and and see just what this place accomplishes on a regular basis. It’s pretty amazing,” said La Pine resident, Terry Mowry.
The upcoming food drive and BBQ will be held on August 30th from 10:30am to 3pm.