Volunteers Needed to Fight Summer Hunger in Lane County

FOOD for Lane County, a local nonprofit organization, is urgently seeking volunteers to help address the pressing issue of hunger in the community during the summer months. With families struggling and the demand for food assistance increasing, the organization is calling on the community to step up and lend a hand in various capacities, from working in the gardens to preparing meals and sorting donations at the warehouse.

Empowering the Community to Nourish Those in Need

Addressing the Summer Hunger Crisis

The summer months can be a particularly challenging time for families facing food insecurity. With schools closed and many volunteers taking vacations, the demand for food assistance often outpaces the available resources. FOOD for Lane County recognizes this pressing issue and is actively seeking volunteers to fill a variety of roles to ensure that no one in the community goes hungry during this time of year.Volunteers are needed to assist in the organization's gardens, where they can help with planting, tending, and harvesting fresh produce. This not only provides nutritious food for those in need but also offers an opportunity for volunteers to connect with the land and learn about sustainable agriculture. Additionally, volunteers are needed to help prepare meals for the organization's Meals on Wheels program, which delivers hot, nutritious meals to homebound individuals and families.

Streamlining the Donation Process

Another crucial area where volunteers are needed is in the organization's warehouse, where they can assist with sorting and organizing donated food items. This behind-the-scenes work ensures that the donated goods are efficiently distributed to the various food pantries and meal sites throughout the county, maximizing the impact of each contribution.Volunteering at FOOD for Lane County is an excellent opportunity for students who need to fulfill community service requirements for graduation. The organization welcomes volunteers as young as 14 years old, making it an accessible and meaningful way for young people to get involved in their community.

Ensuring No One is Left Behind

"Hunger doesn't take a vacation, but so many of our volunteers it's summer, they take vacations and stuff so we really need the community to step up and help," says Dawn Marie Woodward, a spokesperson for FOOD for Lane County. This sentiment underscores the vital role that volunteers play in sustaining the organization's efforts to provide food assistance throughout the summer months.In addition to the volunteer opportunities, FOOD for Lane County is also offering free lunches for all children 18 and younger at dozens of sites across Eugene, Springfield, Junction City, Veneta, and Creswell. This program, which runs from Monday through August 21, ensures that no child in the community goes without a nutritious meal during the summer break.

Answering the Call to Service

By volunteering with FOOD for Lane County, community members can make a tangible difference in the lives of their neighbors who are struggling with food insecurity. Whether it's tending to the gardens, preparing meals, or sorting donations, each volunteer's contribution plays a vital role in the organization's mission to alleviate hunger and nourish the community.As the summer months approach, FOOD for Lane County is urging the community to come together and support its efforts to ensure that no one is left behind. By answering the call to service, volunteers can not only make a meaningful impact but also foster a sense of community and shared responsibility for the well-being of all.