EVENTS HAPPENING IN YOUR AREA.
Partnership Spotlight: Habitat for humanity tri-county partners
“When the homeowner gets to see their home when it’s all completed, they look in the cupboard and the fridge, and they are amazed at how much food is inside,” said Ruth Ann Thompson, a member of the Family Services Team at Habitat for Humanity Tri-County Partners. She was referring to Habitat for Humanity’s partnership with Second Harvest, where Second Harvest stocks the shelves and refrigerator of a newly completed Habitat home with food.
“It’s quite stressful for the families, so any way we can make it an easier transition for them is very much worth our effort,” she said.
The Habitat for Humanity Tri-County Partners provides affordable housing for low-income families in Benton, Franklin and Walla Walla Counties. If a low-income family meets the qualifying requirements and selection criteria, they can partner with Habitat for Humanity to build a home. “A lot of people think the homes are basically free. That’s not how Habitat works,” explained Ruth Ann. “We look at the need, their willingness to partner and their ability to pay. We make sure their income meets the HUD requirements for low-income families. They are required to pay closing costs and to put in 500 hours of sweat equity.”
For families that qualify, going through the homeownership process for the first time can be challenging. The process usually takes 15 to 18 months, and Habitat recognized a need for outside support during the final stages. To ensure their families get off to a good start in their new home, Habitat partnered with Second Harvest to help alleviate stress for their new homeowners. Since 2010, Second Harvest has partnered with Habitat for Humanity for 92 homes, providing food for more than 400 children and 250 adults in Southeastern Washington.
“We really appreciate Second Harvest stepping up at the end when it’s stressful for them after the closing and they’re getting their apartment, or wherever they’re living, packed up and ready to move,” said Ruth Ann. “To know that when they walk into that home there is food available has been a big help to them.”
Food Sourcing Update – September 29
Nearly six months after the federal COVID-19 emergency was lifted, obtaining food continues to be extremely challenging. News stories and conversations with our fellow Feeding America food banks confirm that food sourcing difficulties are nationwide.
That’s why we are so fortunate to be able to access Feeding America’s Choice System to obtain a variety of quality, nutritious food.
How to Host a Fundraiser – September 22
Looking for a fun way to celebrate your birthday, company event or holiday? Hosting a fundraiser for Second Harvest is easy and makes an impact. You can raise funds online or host a food drive in person. We’ll give you the tools to get set up, share your event and start collecting. Every dollar donated makes a difference for neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
Serving Those Who Serve Our Country – September 15
Steve and his wife both retired from the Army, and he also spent time as a civil engineer in the Navy. His career has been a life of service to our country. Today, he is a member of the civilian workforce at Fairchild Air Force Base.
With economics the way they are today, Steve accesses Second Harvest Mobile Market free food distributions on base.
Naturally cheery, Steve manages a smile even when he explains “Times are hard.” Simultaneously, he proudly adds, “We have two kids, 13 and 14. They eat like crazy and are growing like mad.”
Feeding Eastern Washington and North Idaho
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