MEDICAL LAKE — As communities continue to navigate the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Medical Lake Food Bank Association is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of both clients and volunteers with the introduction of a new drive-through facility.
Association Secretary Vickie Kennedy said the purpose is rooted in addressing needs exacerbated by the pandemic and related shutdowns.
“Prior to the pandemic, people could park outside and come in and pick up their food,” Kennedy said. “And then during the pandemic, people would have to wait outside and the volunteers would gather up their food and walk out there in the elements.”
Funded in part by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the American Rescue Plan Act, the food bank received $75,000 in ARPA funding for drive-through construction.
“The benefit is, that our clients don’t have to get out of their cars, and our volunteers don’t have to go out in the elements to deliver food to our clients,” Kennedy said, highlighting the efficiency and safety enhancements offered by the new model.
Food bank funding predominantly stems from proceeds from its volunteer-run thrift store.
Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.
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