SAFER AIR CENTER

The whirlwind of 2020 continues. Hazardous air conditions fueled by wildfire smoke consumed the region this past week, adding to the COVID-19 pandemic that remains at the forefront. In response, the City of Spokane coordinated a temporary 24-hour safer air center at the Spokane Convention Center. The weeklong drop-in shelter was open to anyone needing relief from the smoky conditions – regardless of their housing situation. Second Harvest collaborated by supplying more than 25,000 pounds of ready-to-eat food, including fresh oranges, beef stew pouches, Vienna sausages, peanut butter, crackers, a dried fruits and nuts mix, various snack bars, juice, water, and other items. Your support makes it possible for Second Harvest to respond quickly when urgent needs like this arise.

EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT

Ben Tafoya of Spokane had earning the highest rank of Scouting and helping people in need in mind when he organized a food drive to benefit Second Harvest. 

Ben was drawn to Second Harvest’s hunger-relief mission while researching volunteer opportunities online for the service hours he needs as a student at Gonzaga Prep. The 17-year-old is aware of challenges families are facing right now because of the economic impacts of COVID-19.  

“I saw that there was a need and wanted to help,” Ben said, and he turned this into his Eagle Scout project.

Following COVID-19 safety precautions to limit contact, Ben and members of Boy Scout Troop 218 dropped off Rosauers grocery bags and flyers on porches at 1,200 houses in north Spokane. The flyers encouraged people to leave their food donations on their porches on Sept. 12, and Ben and his volunteer team picked them up that day. In all, 86 hours of volunteer time were donated. Ben was quick to note that his dad, Brian, was a key helper as well. Ben also set up an online fundraising link for his Eagle Scout project that remains open here. 

Ben and his dad delivered 3,332 pounds of food to Second Harvest on Sept. 17.  That’s food for 2,777 meals for hungry people. Thank you, Ben, and wishing you the best on your Eagle Scout quest!

HUNGER ACTION MONTH

So many people have stepped forward to help bring hope to the tables of our neighbors in need during Hunger Action Month. Thank you! We’re grateful for Gesa Credit Union for matching all donations up to $20,000 this month to inspire others to get involved. Visit our website and connect with us on social media to learn more about how you can take action during September.

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