Join the Bend Park and Recreation District's Food Drive for a Hungry Community

Details of the Drive-Thru Food Drive

The Bend Park and Recreation District is hosting this special Drive-Thru Holiday Food Drive on December 14th. Community members are warmly invited to bring their food donations to the Larkspur Community Center, which is the home of the Bend Senior Center. The drop-off location is conveniently at the Bend Senior Center entrance on 1600 SE Reed Market Rd. BPRD staff and volunteers will be on-site to ensure a seamless experience for donors. If desired, donors can remain in their vehicles throughout the process.

Since 2020, the district has been actively involved in collecting food, and this year, they have set a goal to collect 5,000 pounds, which is equivalent to 4,167 meals. This shows their commitment to making a real impact on the lives of those in need.

Food Bank Donation Items in High Demand

Canned proteins such as chicken and tuna are among the items needed most. Soups and stews also play a crucial role in providing nourishment. Canned vegetables and fruit are essential for a balanced diet. Peanut butter is a popular choice as well. It's important to note that no glass packaging is accepted to ensure the safety of the donated food.

NeighborImpact distributed nearly four million pounds of food in 2024, with 44 percent being fresh, canned, and frozen produce. This highlights the significance of food drives like this one in providing high-quality food items to those in need. According to Oregon Food Bank, one in eight Central Oregon neighbors face hunger, making this drive even more crucial.

Donation Bins at Other Facilities

In addition to the Larkspur Community Center, NeighborImpact donation bins are also available at Juniper Swim & Fitness Center, The Pavilion, and the BPRD Office. These facilities are open during regular hours, and visitors are encouraged to bring food items to donate. This provides multiple opportunities for the community to get involved and support the cause.

The generosity of donors is always appreciated, and food drives like this one play a vital role in helping our neighbors. As Julie Brown, BPRD community engagement director, said, "Community members need one another. We want to support NeighborImpact's important mission to provide food for our neighbors this winter."