Newport Avenue Market Fights Hunger in Oregon

 Newport Avenue Market, in conjunction with 100 Women Who Care Central Oregon and Oregon Country Beef, presented Family Kitchen of Bend a check for $56,000 to go toward feeding the hungry in Bend, Oregon.

Newport Avenue Market shoppers generously donated throughout the month of December for Food for February, the annual fundraiser put on by the local grocer. The money raised will be used to purchase groceries at cost for Family Kitchen to provide enough meals for an entire year. Employee-owned Newport Avenue Market matched the funds donated dollar-for-dollar, up to $25,000. As a result of shopper donations, the matched funds contributed by Newport Avenue Market, and generous donations by 100 Women Who Care Central Oregon and Oregon Country Beef, an astonishing $56,000 was presented to Family Kitchen. The total amount is the highest ever since the inception of Food for February, back in 2012.

“Food for February is the largest in-kind donation in Family Kitchen’s history,” explained Donna Burklo, PT Development & Marketing Director, Family Kitchen. “Knowing the entire community pitched in to make it all happen provides a level of respect that our diners don’t often feel. This has become not just a treat for February, but a healthy boost all year round. We are beyond grateful.”

The market works with major brands to order fresh food items at cost from Family Kitchen’s wish list. The fundraising campaign began as a way to help those in need during the months when donations are not as likely, specifically after the holidays, and when the “season of giving” is over.

“One thing we can do is count on our customers to support our community with their generosity, and this year’s Food for February was no exception!” said Lauren Johnson, Leader of the Pack (vrrrooom!) & CEO of Newport Avenue Market.