On Thursday, October 29th, Snohomish will once again get a little spooky when the Snohomish Zombie Walk takes over First Street. Held alongside the final Snohomish Farmers Market of the season, the event is one of the Snohomish Food Bank’s largest fundraisers of the year. The walk is free to participate, and donations help the bank prepare for the increased needs that come with fall, winter, and the holidays.
It is a fun evening, but the heart behind it is serious. The Snohomish Food Bank is serving more people than ever, as the cost of groceries continues to rise. And while food is at the center of its mission, the food bank offers far more than a bag of groceries.
For many people, the food bank has become a place to find connection and community, and its support goes far beyond twice weekly grocery shopping. Throughout the week, the bank offers home delivery, senior shopping hours, and express shop lockers, along with programs that provide weekend groceries to food insecure elementary, middle, and high school students. It also distributes food to community partners serving seniors, families, and others throughout Snohomish. Staff and volunteers make weekly calls to clients to check in, make sure they have what they need, and simply spend a little time talking. For some people, that conversation may be the most meaningful interaction they have all week.
Executive Director Megan Kemmett shared the story of a man who had enough gas to make it to the food bank, but not enough to get home.
“He asked if there was anything we could do,” Megan said. “We were able to give him a voucher to get his gas tank filled at Fred Meyer.”
That moment is a perfect example of what makes the food bank so much more than a place to pick up food. Megan encourages people to reach out when they are facing a problem; even if they are unable to help, the organization may be able to point people toward another resource, or find a way to help fill the gap.
And behind every program are volunteers who keep everything moving. As the needs grow, so does the need for helping hands. Whether you can give an hour, a full day, or a regular commitment, there is a place for you. Volunteering can be a great way to meet people, make a difference, and become part of the community that makes the food bank possible.
Financial donations are also critical. They help provide food, support programs, and keep resources available for people who need them throughout the year.
So this Halloween, let the zombies have the brains and let the rest of us bring the heart. Join the fun on First Street, support the Snohomish Food Bank, and help make sure our neighbors have the food, resources, and support they need. Because when a community comes together, even a horde of zombies can help make a difference.
The Snohomish Food Bank is serving more people than ever, as the cost of groceries continues to rise.