by Megan Metcalf

Community Resource Center

Access to healthy, affordable food is essential for a thriving community. Here on Orcas Island, we’re fortunate to have a robust network of programs and resources designed to ensure that no islander goes hungry. March is National Nutrition Month, and what better time to highlight the multiple options available to help stretch budgets and access nutritious meals.

The Orcas Community Resource Center is committed to helping islanders navigate these resources and connect with the programs that best fit their needs. Some programs are based on income eligibility, while others are open to everyone in our community. Program information and details can be found below.

Daily/Weekly community meals

Community Lunch at the Orcas Island Community Church

Weekly on Tuesdays, noon to 1:30 p.m. Come one, come all to enjoy a no-cost lunch. It’s more than a meal, it’s an opportunity to connect with our community! To volunteer to serve or bring food, please email communitylunch@orcascrc.org.

Senior Lunch at the Orcas Senior Center

Mondays and Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. $5 for 60-plus, $10 for under 60. Learn more by calling 360-376-2677 or at www.orcasseniors.org/nutrition/.

Benefits programs

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP

Monthly food benefits usable at grocery stores and farmers markets. As an added feature, SNAP Market Match doubles benefits for fruits and vegetables. For more information, call 877-501-2233 or visit https://washingtonconnection.org/home/.

Women, Infants and Children, or WIC

For pregnant women, new moms and children under 5 – includes Farmers Market Nutrition Program benefits. Learn more by calling 360-378-4474 or at www.sanjuancountywa.gov/455/WIC-Program.

Specialized Services

Meals on Wheels

Home delivery: Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Learn more by calling 360-370-7525 or email stevenz@sanjuancountywa.gov.

Orcas Island Food Bank

Nourishing current and future generations of our community through food access, education and advocacy. Offering no-cost nutritious food weekly for qualifying residents. Visit www.orcasislandfoodbank.org for eligibility and hours of operation.

Local Food Access Initiatives

Orcas Community Resource Center Food Access Program

Simple hot meals for those without adequate cooking facilities. Available Monday through Friday during office hours. Learn more by calling 360-376-3184 or emailing info@orcascrc.org.

Fresh Bucks Program

Up to $20 benefit per purchase for qualifying residents. Partnership of Orcas Food Co-op, Resource Center and San Juan County. Learn more at https://orcasfood.coop/fresh-bucks/.

Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

For purchase of fresh, healthy food at local farmers markets. Program participants receive a card to use at approved farm vendors and farmers markets. For more info, call 360-378-4474.

Orcas Food Co-op FLOWER Program

10% discount for qualifying member-owners. Membership is available for as little as $2 per month. Learn more at https://orcasfood.coop/flower-program/.

This network of programs ensures that all community members have multiple options for accessing healthy, affordable food while also supporting local agriculture and community connections. If you’re not sure where to start or need assistance, contact the Resource Center at 360-376-3184 or info@orcascrc.org.