They are so close they can taste it.
The campaign to raise $65,000 for the food bank’s new building is very likely to reach a positive conclusion.
“I’m overwhelmed,” said Larry Shaw, who runs the food bank with his wife Joyce. “It’s been fantastic.”
Island donors (through the Orcas Island Community Foundation) pledged $65,000 in matching funds. The food bank has been collecting money from the community for the past few months, with a big push in October and November. The deadline is Thanksgiving, and as of Nov. 16, they only had around $5,000 left to raise.
Since January of this year, the Orcas Food Bank has served 271 households. The organization relies on around 30 volunteers, who work out of the basement of the Orcas Island Community Church. It has had many homes over its 25-year history, but the current spot is crowded and limited in storage space.
The food bank has its sights set on a 24’ x 48’ modular building, which would provide space for a refrigerator, freezer, dry storage, and a prep area. The community church has agreed to lease space on its property for $1 a year.
A wide range of community members have donated towards the $65,000, ranging in contributions of $10 to $4,000.
“Anywhere from $500 to $1000 is typical (from individuals),” said Larry, who added that local organizations like the Lions Club and Kiwanis have also been generous with donations.
If all goes as planned, once the Thanksgiving goal is met, the Shaws will send in a down payment to the building company.
The building will likely be in place by Feb. 1, 2011. Then comes concrete work, landscaping, and moving the equipment inside, which will take 60 days.
“All of a sudden, we’ve gotten so doggone close to our goal,” said Larry.
How to donate
Mail checks payable to OICF/OIFB Building Fund, P.O. Box 1496, Eastsound, WA 98245.
Email lajoy@centurytel.net or visit orcasislandfoodbank.com for more information.
The campaign’s progress will be updated on the food bank’s website, orcasislandfoodbank.com. Check out islandssounder.com, on Nov. 24 for final results.
