The holidays often bring a sense of joy and togetherness, but beneath the surface, food insecurity persists as a significant issue, particularly during the colder months. According to recent data from the Oregon Food Bank, one in every ten individuals in the state grapples with hunger, unsure of where their next meal will come from. If you or someone you know is facing this struggle during this season, here are some essential community food insecurity resources.

Uniting Communities to End Hunger This Winter

Free Community Meals and Food Distribution Sites in Oregon

The Marion Polk Food Share has been instrumental in providing access to free community meals across the state. In Dallas, the James 2 Community Kitchen at Dallas United Methodist Church offers a warm meal every Thursday from 4:30 to 6 p.m. (except on December 26th), located at 565 SE La Creole Drive. In Keizer, the Keizer Community Dinner takes place on the fourth Wednesday of each month from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at St. Edward Catholic Church on 5303 River Road N. And in Woodburn, the Woodburn Free Community Meal is served at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at 1036 E Lincoln St.

The Salem Soup Squad, an offshoot of the Free Fridges of Salem group, provides free hot meals and harm reduction items throughout the month. Volunteers can be found in either Marion Square Park on December 7th, 14th, and 21st or Wallace Marine Park on December 9th and 25th. For more information or those interested in volunteering, check out their Instagram page, @salemsoupsquad.

Produce and Bread Distribution Sites

These sites play a crucial role in providing food to those in need, even to those who are not eligible for Marion Polk Food Share pantries. In Salem, the Salem Mission Faith Ministries distributes food on the second, third, and fourth Tuesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. at 4308 Hillrose St. The Wade Harris Outreach Ministry in Salem offers food on Fridays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at 865 Medical Center Drive. In Falls City, the Falls City Produce Giveaway takes place on Fridays from 4 to 5 p.m. at 457 N. Main St. And in Willamina, the Willamina Community Food Pantry distributes food on Wednesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. at 340 NW B St.

Food Pantries Around Marion County

Food pantries serve as a vital community resource for those who meet the USDA 2024 Income Guidelines or qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These pantries are partnered with the Marion Polk Food Share to provide a box of food. When visiting a pantry, you only need to provide your name, address (if applicable), and the number of people in your household. ID, proof of income, address, or citizenship is not required. To find a food pantry near you, visit the Marion Polk Food Share’s pantry locator at marionpolkfoodshare.org/get-help.

Em Chan covers food and dining at the Statesman Journal. You can reach her at echan@gannett.com and follow her on X @catchuptoemily.