SPOKANE, Wash. – 2nd Harvest has been forced to turn people away at their mobile markets due to a lack of food. The organization is working tirelessly to make as much food available as possible.
These mobile markets are held frequently in various locations. However, showing up early does not guarantee access to food. Some markets see people arriving 4-6 hours in advance, and still, dozens are turned away due to limited resources. Volunteer crews are doing their best to stretch the food supplies.
Eric Williams from 2nd Harvest stated, “And we’re having to say, sorry, we’re out. We’ve served as many people as we possibly can with how much food. That’s really, really hard to tell. Somebody who had to make the decision. Do they have enough money to pay for the gas to get to the mobile market?” said Williams.
2nd Harvest is asking for financial donations to support the increased demand. They are urging the public to contribute funds, as they are purchasing food in bulk to meet needs. Every dollar donated helps them acquire more food for those in need.
Food donations are also welcome, including non-perishables like canned or boxed goods. Community food drives and businesses donating unsold inventory are encouraged.
Volunteering is another way to help. 2nd Harvest appreciates all assistance but emphasizes the importance of financial contributions to quickly turn funds into needed food items.
Williams explained, “Right now funds, we can turn that into food in large amounts way more quickly. And also, we can get the foods that our pantries are telling us, hey, we got a lot of this, but we don’t have any of that. So that will help us buy what is most needed again at your local neighborhood pantry,” said Williams.
2nd Harvest remains committed to addressing the community’s needs and is asking for support to ensure no one is turned away hungry.
If you need to find a mobile market near you, click here.
For more information on how to donate or volunteer, visit the 2nd Harvest website.
