Feeding Montana's Hungry: Town Pump's Charitable Mission Tackles Rising Food Costs

As the cost of living continues to soar, more Montanans are turning to local food banks for assistance. In response, the Town Pump Charitable Foundation is spearheading a major fundraising campaign to support these vital community resources, aiming to raise $4 million to help feed the state's most vulnerable residents.

Empowering Montana's Food Banks to Meet Growing Demand

Unprecedented Participation in Statewide Fundraising Effort

The "Help Those in Need" campaign, which has been running since 2001, has reached new heights this year, with a record 116 food banks across Montana participating. Over the past 22 years, the campaign has raised an impressive $52 million for food banks statewide, including nearly $12 million in matching grants from the Town Pump Charitable Foundation. This year's campaign, which runs through November 30th, is poised to build on this impressive legacy.

Addressing the Rising Costs of Groceries and Household Essentials

The increased demand for food bank services is a direct result of the soaring costs of groceries and other everyday expenses. Families struggling to make ends meet are turning to these community resources in growing numbers, putting a significant strain on food bank operations. The Town Pump Charitable Foundation's matching funds are crucial in helping these organizations keep up with the rising need and ensure they can continue providing vital support to those in need.

Ensuring Food Banks Can Maintain Operations and Expand Offerings

The funds raised through the "Help Those in Need" campaign are not only used to purchase perishable food items such as milk, bread, fruits, and vegetables, but also to cover the essential costs of running a food bank. This includes rent, utilities, and storage space for refrigeration and freezing – expenses that have become increasingly burdensome as inflation takes its toll. By providing this crucial financial support, the Town Pump Charitable Foundation is empowering food banks to not only maintain their operations but also expand their offerings to better serve their communities.

Strengthening Local Partnerships and Community Resilience

The Town Pump Charitable Foundation's commitment to the "Help Those in Need" campaign extends beyond the statewide level. Locally, the Foundation is matching up to $7,000 in donations to the North Valley Food Bank in Whitefish, ensuring that all funds raised in the community stay within the community. This targeted approach allows the Foundation to make a tangible difference in the lives of Montanans struggling with the rising cost of living, while also fostering a sense of community resilience and self-reliance.

A Call to Action: Donating to Make a Difference

"Our local food banks are working at maximum capacity serving more and more families dealing with rising costs of groceries and other household items," said Bill McGladdery of the Town Pump Charitable Foundation. "Please join Town Pump and our dedicated food bank partners in making a difference in the lives of our hungry neighbors by donating today at our businesses or directly to your local food bank."Donations can be made at local Town Pump and Lucky Lil's casino locations, or directly to the North Valley Food Bank at 251 Flathead Avenue, Whitefish, MT 59937. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant impact in the lives of those struggling to put food on the table.