DUMP HUNGER 2020: APRIL UPDATE

Our stores are coming up with creative ways to encourage employees to contribute to the 2020 Dump Hunger campaign!

Western States is proud to help our local communities by supporting food banks. Food and monetary donations are desperately needed to keep up with the rising need, especially in smaller communities who have been hit hard by the impacts of the coronavirus. All donations will be distributed to each store’s local food bank. So far, employees have donated a total of 210 pounds of food, and approximately $4,500.

While all of our stores have taken Dump Hunger and its mission to heart, two stores in particular have gone to extra lengths to encourage employees to donate. Kalispell and Lewiston have each sweetened the pot with a raffle for a Cat cooler, in the hope that the incentive encourages monetary and food donations.

“Due to the Covid-19 virus, many have not been able to work and provide for their families during the last few weeks. It is pretty disheartening to know that there are people in our community that are struggling to keep themselves and their families fed,” said Rental Coordinator John Swartzenberger in an email to Kalispell employees.

Foodbanks across our territory are eager to receive donations to help our communities. As a reminder, many food banks prefer monetary donations over food donations, as they can make a dollar stretch farther than average consumers are able to. If you would like to make a food donation, items such as peanut butter, rice, pasta and beans are in high demand at food banks.

“Remember also that Western States will match employee donations up to $10,000, “said Service Pricing Supervisor Gary Anderson in an email to the Lewiston store, “Let’s show the Lewiston Clarkston Valley how much we care at a time when so many people are struggling to provide for their families. We are blessed that we are able to work, so let’s help our fellow citizens! “