Volunteer group builds new shelving for local food bank

Tucked behind the Wahkiakum County Health & Human Services building on Elochoman Road, the Wahkiakum Food Bank quietly serves around 25 local families each week. Operated entirely by volunteers, the food bank runs on the generosity of donors and the dedication of community members who believe no one in Wahkiakum County should go hungry.

Earlier this summer, new shelving was installed in the food bank's garage area thanks to volunteer Jim Fine of Castle Rock, who organized the effort through the volunteer movement JustServe. Fine secured all of the building materials through donations from Builders First Source, Lowe's in Longview, and Castle Rock Lumber. Fine said, "These businesses were so eager to donate, I had to turn away some supplies. They were just willing to give so much but I wanted to make sure other businesses could be involved too." The upgraded shelving has improved organization, increased storage capacity, and helped the food bank better serve local families.

With no formal funding, the food bank relies entirely on donations. About a dozen regular volunteers rotate monthly shifts. Nora Lee Sorenson, who manages the food bank, described the experience as "very rewarding," saying they're "just there to help." The food bank thanks the community for its continued generosity and support.

In addition to shelf-stable goods, the food bank distributes fresh produce, meat, and pet food. The Cathlamet community garden donates fruits and vegetables weekly during the growing season. The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife and area hatcheries provide donated fish, and occasionally elk, deer, or bear meat confiscated from illegal hunting. Rather than go to waste, the meat is professionally processed and wrapped for distribution. These costs are covered by the food bank.

Pet food is donated by WAAG (Wahkiakum Animal Advocates Group), a local nonprofit volunteer organization that supports pets and pet owners in need.

The food bank also benefits from weekly deliveries by the Lower Columbia Community Action Program (CAP), a long-running anti-poverty nonprofit serving Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties.

The mission of the food bank is to provide temporary assistance for Wahkiakum residents experiencing hardship-rooted in the conviction that no one should go hungry. Volunteers emphasize that while individual circumstances vary, the core goal remains helping neighbors in need.

The Wahkiakum Food Bank Association is led by four elected officers: President Nora Lee Sorenson, Vice President Wanda Rockford, Secretary Esther Roche, and Treasurer Mitzi Christensen.

The food bank is open every Tuesday from 2 to 4 p.m. at 42 Elochoman Road. Donations of food, hygiene items, or monetary support are welcome. Mail or checks made out to Wahkiakum Food Bank Association can be sent to P.O. Box 143, Cathlamet, WA 98612. For questions or more information, contact Nora Lee Sorenson at 360‑431‑4720.

The Wahkiakum Food Bank extends heartfelt thanks to the community. Your continued generosity keeps the shelves full and hope alive for families in need. "We are stronger together and can do more if we work together." Said Fine. To find out how to get involved with the JustServe organization, go online to http://www.justserve.org.