Food insecurity is being addressed by the Dayton Food Bank

DAYTON—The number of households served by the Dayton Food Bank has shot up from 160 each month before the COVID-19 pandemic began, to now serving 588 each month.

“In seven months, we have distributed 269,061 pounds of food in Columbia County,” said Judi Pilcher, Vice-president/Branch manager of HomeStreet Bank and board member overseeing the food bank.

In March 2020, the food bank operated as a drive-through at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, with help from Blue Mountain Action Council, the National Guard, and many volunteers.

The Food Bank has since moved to the Ag Link building located at 207 North Third Street to continue offering drive-through food distribution on Tuesdays, between 2-4 p.m.

Pilcher said both the Ag Link and fairgrounds drive-through locations have helped serve the growing need for food security during the pandemic. Earlier in the year, the board determined that the Clay Street location could not handle the distribution changes due to the pandemic.

Pilcher said delivery is available for clients who cannot come to the Ag Link building in person by calling Columbia County Public Transportation at (509) 520-8375.

“If you would like to come and help, we can always use the extra hands,” Pilcher said. “Thank you to all of our dedicated volunteers!”