When summer arrives in Montana, many families face a tough challenge: finding enough nutritious meals for their kids. About 1 in 6 children in the state struggle with food insecurity, making this time of year especially difficult. Without the meals they get during the school year, these families feel the pinch even more.
To help, the North Valley Food Bank is running its annual FEED KIDS Food Drive throughout May. Community members are encouraged to donate kid-friendly food items to stock the food bank’s shelves before school ends.
They’re looking for items like applesauce cups, macaroni and cheese, tuna packets, cereal, and fruit snacks. These donations will go directly to families during the food bank’s free grocery store hours. There’s even a kids’ corner where little ones can pick their own snacks while parents shop.
Gracie, a local mom, loves the welcoming environment. “The staff and volunteers are so family-oriented,” she says. “They help me with my kids, and my children enjoy the kids’ corner. It makes the experience special.”
Every contribution, big or small, helps fill the grocery store and kids’ corner with food all summer long. Donations can be dropped off at locations such as Safeway, local schools, and churches, as well as the North Valley Food Bank itself.
Financial donations are also welcomed. Every dollar raised helps provide two meals, supporting both the kids’ corner and the grocery store. In recent years, food banks across the U.S. have reported a 30% increase in demand, highlighting the ongoing struggle many families face in accessing enough food.
In the face of rising costs, community support remains vital. The North Valley Food Bank not only provides food but also fosters a sense of community. If you’re interested in helping, consider donating — your contribution can make a real difference.
For more details, you can reach out to Maddie Culhane, Community Outreach and Partnerships Coordinator, via email at [email protected].
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