Bellevue Heritage Bank is once again stepping up to help those in need in our communities. During the entire month of July, they will be accepting donations of non-perishable food and baby items (diapers, wipes, formula) at their branch located at 520 – 112th Ave NE in downtown Bellevue. Special thanks to branch manager Heather Rane, her staff, their clients and everyone who contributes to help make this badly needed summer food drive be a success!
Renewal Food Bank was started in 1998 in response to Northwest Harvest’s need for a hunger relief partner on the greater Eastside. Since its inception Renewal Food Bank has fed 290,000 people. Renewal Food Bank is providing a safety net for seniors, single parent families and the large numbers of unemployed living in the area. Our current economic conditions have raised the number of immigrant families receiving services. This has resulted in a substantial increase in the number of children served. Renewal Food Banks goal is to ensure that no one goes to bed hungry in our community.
Renewal Food Bank’s Mission is to provide food security for all who need it in East King County and beyond in an environment of caring service, dignity and respect. We are open for emergencies and also do home deliveries for seniors experiencing health related issues. Renewal Food Bank is part of the Hunger Relief Network.
World Impact Network 12819 SE 38th St PMB 53 Bellevue WA 98006 425-643-8246 http://www.worldimpactnetwork.org
Gabriella Van Breda is the Executive Director of World Impact Network which runs a number of programs, including the Renewal Food Bank, one of the few food bank and emergency food programs on the Eastside.
Renewal Food Bank’s relationship with Eastside Foursquare Church provides free space and access to volunteers and donations. It is also part of the Northwest Harvest and Food Lifeline hunger relief networks and has established partnerships with the City of Bellevue, local businesses and Eastside agencies and individuals. To include Heritage Banks participation in their Oink for Change! Help Feed the Hungry 2011 campaign and an Annual Food Drive.
There are few restrictions to accessing food and services from the food bank, so a wide range of people in need are able to receive services, including those who may narrowly miss qualifying for public assistance. It also provides services regardless of proof of citizenship or residency which can often be a barrier to services by other providers.
It is set up so that people can shop for what they want and will use – which results in less waste and provides clients with the ability to select items based on their specific needs, such as cultural and dietary restrictions.