Evergreen State Fair's Annual Food Drive Aims to Surpass Last Year's Impressive Donations

The Evergreen State Fair in Monroe, Washington, is not just about rides, games, and entertainment. It's also a time for the community to come together and support those in need through the annual Fair Food Drive. This year, the drive aims to exceed the impressive 19,195 pounds of donated food collected in 2023, providing a vital lifeline to the Snohomish Food Bank Coalition.

Donate and Receive Discounted Fair Admission

Giving Back to the Community

The Evergreen State Fair is a highly anticipated event, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the region and generating significant economic activity for Snohomish County. However, the fair's organizers recognize that with great success comes the responsibility to give back to the community. The annual Fair Food Drive is a testament to this commitment, providing an opportunity for attendees to contribute to a worthy cause while also enjoying the fair's attractions.Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, "Each year, we take the opportunity to give back to community members in need through the Fair Food Drive." This sentiment underscores the fair's dedication to supporting the local community and ensuring that everyone can benefit from the event's success.

Streamlined Donation Process

In a departure from previous years, the Fair Food Drive has been moved to an earlier date, eliminating the pressure of having to visit the fair on a specific day to take advantage of the discounted admission offer. Sharon Swan, the director of the county's parks and recreation division, explains, "Having the food drive early, instead of on the opening day of the fair, which has been a tradition in the past, eliminates the pressure of having to come to the fair on a certain day to save money on admission."This change in the donation timeline provides greater flexibility for attendees, allowing them to contribute to the cause at their convenience. Donations can be dropped off at various Lee Johnson Auto Family locations around the region until July 11, making it easier for individuals to participate and support the Snohomish Food Bank Coalition.

Incentivizing Donations

The Fair Food Drive offers a tangible incentive for those who contribute to the cause. Individuals who donate five or more non-perishable and unexpired items will receive one weekday ticket to this year's Evergreen State Fair. This offer is limited to one ticket per person and five tickets per car, ensuring that the discounted admission is distributed fairly among participants.The main drive-thru fundraising event is scheduled for July 13, starting at noon, providing a dedicated opportunity for the community to come together and make their donations. After the donation has been made and participants receive their tickets, they can choose which weekday to enjoy the fair, further enhancing the flexibility and convenience of the program.

Suggested Donation Items

The Evergreen State Fair has provided a comprehensive list of suggested non-perishable and unexpired donation items, including:- Baby wipes- Hygiene/toiletry products- Canned vegetables- Whole grain pasta- Peanut butter- Rice- Shelf-stable milk- Jelly and jams- Canned meats- Canned fruits- Kitchen staples (spices, flour, sugar, cooking oil, salt)- Pet foodThis diverse range of items ensures that the Snohomish Food Bank Coalition can address the varied needs of the community, providing essential supplies and nourishment to those who rely on their services.

Convenient Donation Locations

To make the donation process as accessible as possible, the Evergreen State Fair has partnered with several Lee Johnson Auto Family locations throughout the region. Individuals can drop off their donations at the following sites from June 24 to July 11:- Lee Johnson Chevrolet- Lee Johnson Mazda- Lee Johnson Kia in Kirkland- Lee Johnson Nissan of Kirkland- Speedway Chevrolet & RV in Monroe- Lee Johnson Hyundai of Everett- Genesis of Kirkland- Autoright Motors Bothell- Autoright Motors Lake Stevens- Lee Johnson Mazda of SeattleThis extensive network of drop-off locations ensures that community members across Snohomish County can easily contribute to the Fair Food Drive, further strengthening the fair's commitment to supporting those in need.