A volunteer helps out at the Keizer Community Food Bank (File).
Due to the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Keizer Community Food Bank has been a lot busier than normal.
Jim Johnson, a spokesperson for the food bank, said that they prepared almost twice as many meals last week then they are used to.
“With the grocery shelves becoming bare, it’s become a little bit crazy,” Johnson said.
Although donations only make up for 5 percent of the food bank’s distribution, the food bank is in serious need of donations.
Currently, Keizer Food Bank’s biggest needs right now are milk, eggs, bread and meat. Canned goods would also be incredibly helpful according to Johnson.
Cash donations are also accepted and preferred — the food bank can purchase items that are needed for the pantry at 35 cents on the dollar. People can also make financial donations at tinyurl.com/keizerfb.
On Monday, March 23, Keizer Food Bank posted on their Facebook account their appreciation for members of the community stepping up to make donations in a time of great need.
“Thank you Keizer for stepping up in such a big way for our Keizer Food Bank this evening … The number of families we are serving is unprecedented (and) with grocery store shelves empty it’s getting harder for people to feed their families. So thank you and keep the food coming …,” the post said.
They are still operating during the same hours (Monday 6-7:30 p.m. and Thursday 9:30- 11 a.m). Customers will no longer be allowed in the building — volunteers will bring the food to your car or deliver to food to your home.
“We intend to stay open as long as we can get volunteers and food,” Johnson said.
Keizer Community Food Bank is a nonprofit organization and is located at Faith Lutheran Church (4505 River Rd. N).