The Bonner Community Food Bank is entering an exciting new chapter after acquiring a larger space in Ponderay. This move marks a significant upgrade from its previous location in Sandpoint, which was 5,900 square feet.
Executive Director Debbie Love shared that the new facility at 900 Kootenai Cutoff Road spans 12,222 square feet. “We wanted a place that would last for generations,” she noted, indicating their long-term vision for serving the community.
While the food bank will continue operations at its current site until around fall, the benefits of the new location are clear. The extra space comes with improved parking, a roll-up loading door, green areas for community gardens, and a 2,400-square-foot outbuilding that could serve as a classroom or commercial kitchen.
“We anticipate using that space for community programs in about three to five years,” Love mentioned. “Being on the SPOT bus route also makes it easier for people to access our services.”
Demand for food assistance has surged. In April alone, the food bank purchased 10,650 pounds of food and supported over 3,100 individuals. The current location can barely keep up, and their lease on the north parking lot expires soon.
The new space will also allow the food bank to assist other area pantries, like those in Clark Fork and Priest Lake. “Since Harvest in Spokane stopped their monthly deliveries, we can now become a vital resource for these pantries,” Love explained.
Property records show that the new site was valued at over $1 million. The food bank funded the purchase through years of savings and a loan. Selling the old location will further help offset costs.
Renovations will include repaving the parking areas, and volunteers from local organizations, like Cedar Hills Church, will help clean and paint in June. Some plans still need city approval, but Love is optimistic about starting to move into the new space by October.
Initially, they plan to utilize more than half of the new site. This expansion not only provides room for growth but also allows for larger groups of volunteers to assist, which is essential for tackling ongoing food needs in the community.
For more information on the Bonner Community Food Bank and its mission, you can visit bonnerfoodbank.org.
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