As the new school year begins, the Ashland Community Food Bank (ACFB) is gearing up to ensure that every child in our community has access to nutritious food. This time of year is critical, and we’re asking for your help in stocking their shelves. ACFB reports that 24% of the food provided directly at their doors goes to feed children. Beyond this, ACFB supports several vital programs focused on reaching the most vulnerable youth in our community, ensuring they receive the nourishment they need to thrive.
Here’s how ACFB is making a difference:
• HeadStart: In the 2023/24 school year, ACFB supported 18 families in the HeadStart program by providing two dinners per month for each family. This program is a lifeline for families with young children who need extra support.
• ACCESS PowerPack Backpacks: Partnering with the Rotary Club of Ashland, ACFB supplements 85 backpacks with high-quality protein and fresh fruit. These backpacks go home with elementary students identified as experiencing extreme food insecurity, ensuring they have food to eat over the weekend when school meals aren’t available.
• Ashland Middle School and High School: ACFB supplies quick-to-prepare, non-stigmatizing foods to Ashland Middle School and High School. Teachers and counselors distribute these foods to students who may not have eaten, have nothing to sustain them during the day, or are struggling with emotional or cognitive challenges.
• Southern Oregon University: ACFB also supports the student pantry at Southern Oregon University, providing about 600 pounds of food each month to help college students who are facing food insecurity.
Your contributions to the Ashland Food Project directly support these programs, making a significant impact on the lives of children and families in our community. Every donation counts!
