April 8, 2010
Loaves and Fish net $20,000 for new building
Berl Tiskus/Valley Journal
Shawn Davis, left, and Brit Schliep from Home Town Plumbing install a sink at the newly remodeled Polson Loaves and Fish building. The finishing touches are being put on the building for a grand opening.
Valley Journal
POLSON - Polson Loaves and Fish received a donation of $20,000 to be used towards their current remodel and relocation to 904 1st St. East. First Interstate Bank and the First Interstate Foundation donated $10,000 towards the project, and Country Foods provided an additional $10,000 in matching funds for a $20,000 shot in the arm for the food pantry.
"A couple of months ago, I was having a discussion with Jeremy (Morgret of First Interstate Bank) about the needs and struggles of our local community. Jeremy mentioned that he had received a grant request from the local food bank. We told Jeremy that if First Interstate Bank would make a significant contribution, Country Foods would match that donation to lend support to our community," Fred Kellogg of Country Foods said.
"When we took a look at the needs of the local communities in our region during the current economy, we saw the increased burden that has been placed on our local food banks. We are focusing our giving to these areas during this time of need," said Morgret, Branch Manager of First Interstate Bank of Polson.
Polson Loaves and Fish was organized in 1982 to fulfill food needs on a local level and operates entirely with volunteer workers. The demand for the food pantry's services has grown significantly over the years. In 2009, the number of people receiving food from Polson Loaves and Fish increased 59% from 2008. This increased demand required Polson Loaves and Fish to expand its operations.
Board member Bryan River said Loaves and Fish would start operating from the newly remodeled building on April 12 after the Boy Scouts come in and clean up the facilities. The board plans a grand opening either the last week of April or the first week in May, River added.
Polson Loaves and Fish board member Sid Rundell also announced that non-governmental donations, such as food, cash, checks and pledges made before May 1 and specifically designated for the Alan Shawn Feinstein Foundation Challenge will help the food pantry net some additional funds. For the 13th consecutive year, the Feinstein Foundation will divide $1 million among anti-hunger agencies nationwide. |
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