Post Falls Food Bank - Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mission of the Post Falls Food Bank?	The Mission of the Food Bank is to help the needy in Post Falls, especially those in emergency situations,by providing food, referrals to other agencies, and assistance with personal budgeting if requested. Our services are provided free of charge and in a spirit of respect and compassion for those helped. We hope this new website will encourage you to assist us in our mission to provide vital services to our community.
How is the Food Bank organized?	The Post Falls Food Bank is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization incorporated under the laws of the State of Idaho and operating in the Post Falls community.
Is the Food Bank part of United Way?	Yes, the Food Bank is a participating agency of United Way of Kootenai County,and receives an annual grant from that agency.
Who operates the Food Bank?	The Food Bank employs a Manager who is supported by part-time volunteers and drivers. An eight-member Board of Directors oversees the activities of the Food Bank. More than 200 local volunteers provide 75,000 hours of manpower annually. Also,the County jail system provides community service volunteers. Click here to see a list of the Food Bank's Management Team.
Who does the Food Bank help?	We help people in need and in emergencies that qualify under the Federal poverty guidelines. They are people living in the Post Falls area, who are out of work, underemployed, trying to live on inadequate fixed incomes. A large percentage are senior citizens or families with small children. In addition to our client base we supply local food kitchens, shelters, children's agencies and special school programs with salvage bread, produce and dairy products when they are available.
How is the Food Bank funded?	The Post Falls Food Bank is a private non-profit organization. We receive no federal or state funds. We depend on the people, businesses, and organizations in our community. All of our food and money comes from the general public, fundraisers, and a grant from the United Way.
How great is the need?	In 1996, we reported a cumulative number of 16,300 people served by the Food Bank. At our current rate, a cumulative total of 50,000people will have been served food baskets and/or salvage (bread, produce and dairy donated by local grocery chains)this year. That's an increase of more than 300%! We expect these numbers to continue to increase, based on the economic situation in our community.
Would it be better to donate money or food?	We are happy to receive either kind of donation. We have regular fiscal needs the same as any other organization, including rent, utilities, gasoline and staff. One dollar buys seven pounds of food from the Second Harvest distribution center. Our Food Bank Manager is able to stretch a dollar further than most people because of her contacts with major agency programs. We are grateful for whatever help you can give.
What other programs does the Food Bank provide?	*Back-to-School* The Food Bank developed a Back-to-School program to provide school supplies and clothes for needy children. Every child in the program receives school supplies (based on the list provided by the school district). *Coats for Kids* We are the Kootenai County distribution point for the Coats for Kids program. Our coats are available all winter, until March and then are donated to Churches for further distribution. *Boots, Hats & Gloves for Kids* Sponsored by Windermere Realty, Post Falls Fire Department, and Post Falls Kiwanis. *Senior Blankets & Sweaters* Provided by KnitWits, St. George's Quilters and others. *Holiday Baskets for Thanksgiving & Christmas* In conjunction with Christmas for All.
	*Community Outreach:* The Food Bank provides outreach and assistance to a number of soup kitchens, local food banks, church outreach programs, and senior centers. Click here to see a list of agencies and organizations that benefit from the Post Falls Food Bank.

E-Mail the Food Bank

Post Falls Food Bank
415 E. Third Avenue | Post Falls, ID 83854 | 208-773-0139