SPOKANE, Wash. – A Spokane nonprofit is back on the road after its trailer was stolen, thanks to a local business that stepped in to buy a new one the same day.
The group, called Neighbors Feeding Neighbors, uses its trailer to deliver meals, water, clothing and “blessing bags” to people across Spokane. Founder Larry Barringer says this is the second time the trailer has been stolen in recent years.
Barringer says he had no way to replace it after learning his insurance would only cover a small portion of the loss.
“I cried, I’ll be honest. I had tears in my eyes… just because I knew Spokane would do something. And they did. That’s just how we are,” Barringer said.
The turning point came when Action Recycling reached out after hearing about the theft.
“I was pretty stressed… and then I got a text from Glenn over at Action Recycling… saying they would like to replace my trailer,” Barringer said.
That message led to a meeting Friday morning at North 40 in Airway Heights, where Action Recycling Vice President Glen Ahlborn bought Barringer a brand-new trailer on the spot, complete with new locks and equipment.
“I just wanted to reach out and get him back on the road as soon as possible. We also offered a secure storage location for him so this doesn’t happen again. But it’s nice to be in a position where we can offer that kind of assistance to somebody doing good in the community,” Ahlborn said.
Ahlborn also offered Barringer secure storage at their facility to prevent another theft.
The timing couldn’t be more critical. Barringer is preparing to serve hundreds of meals over Thanksgiving weekend, and says the group relies on the trailer to transport food and supplies.
“Somebody took advantage of him and his organization right at the holidays, right when people need help the most… and we were just in a blessed position to be able to help somebody,” Ahlborn said.
For Barringer, the donation means he can continue the work he believes Spokane depends on.
“I just love feeding people. I love doing things in my community and just knowing that the community has got my back. I mean, what more could a person want?” Barringer said.
Barringer’s first stop with the new trailer will be back out on the streets, serving hot meals to those who need them most this holiday season.
