NW Plus Credit Union recently made a significant impact in the community by donating $20,000 to local food banks and pantries through its annual Hunger Heroes campaign. The campaign kicked off in November 2025 with the goal of raising $10,000 to aid six local partners, but the support from members helped the initiative double that target.
From November 17 to January 2, the credit union accepted cash donations and pledged an additional $50 for each new member account opened during this period. Individual contributions are being distributed to community partners throughout January.
Torrie Ramos, CEO of NW Plus CU, expressed gratitude for the community’s generosity, emphasizing that the success of the campaign has a real impact on families in need.
Here’s how the donations broke down by partner:
- Helping Hands Food Bank and Solution Center – $2,000
- Stanwood Camano Food Bank – $2,500
- Arlington Community Food Bank – $2,000
- Marysville Community Food Bank – $3,000
- Millennia Ministries – $8,500
- Mill Creek Community Food Bank – $2,000
As highlighted by the Snohomish County Health Department, about 9% of residents in the area face food insecurity, indicating there remains a deep need for support.
Laurie Barbosa from Millennia Ministries noted the growing demand for food assistance. She shared how their team strives to ensure everyone in their community has access to nutritious food.
Mandi Rothman of Helping Hands Food Bank pointed out that NW Plus CU plays a vital role in their operations. She remarked that such community partnerships are crucial for serving the many families depending on their support.
Bringing in a larger perspective, it’s important to note that in the United States, an estimated 100 to 200 million tons of food are wasted each year. This highlights the urgency of addressing food security as a fundamental right, rather than just an act of charity. Leilani Miller from Millennia Ministries underscored the moral duty to ensure that communities have enough to eat.
For over 80 years, NW Plus Credit Union has been dedicated to serving its members, evolving from its roots with employees of Frontier Communications to now supporting anyone in Washington. You can learn more about them at NW Plus CU.
