The Keizer Community Food Bank announced a major expansion that will triple its ability to store and distribute food to families in need. The nonprofit is launching a $350,000 construction and renovation effort and is asking the community to help raise $155,000.
Project details
The expansion will repurpose a storage garage located in the parking lot of a local church. Currently a 24‑by‑24‑foot structure, the garage will be extended to 54 feet on one side, creating a significantly larger, climate‑controlled space for food inventory. The added square footage will allow the food bank to store more perishable items, reduce spoilage, and streamline the weekly preparation process for distribution.
In addition to the physical enlargement, the project includes upgrades to lighting, insulation, and shelving. These improvements are expected to cut the labor hours required to ready food parcels, freeing volunteers to focus on outreach and client assistance.
Why the expansion matters
Keizer’s food insecurity rates have risen sharply over the past year, mirroring trends across the Willamette Valley. With more families relying on emergency food assistance, the bank’s existing storage capacity has become a bottleneck. By increasing space, the organization can accept larger donations from grocery partners and local farms, ensuring that fresh produce and dairy reach those who need them most.
“Our volunteers work tirelessly, but the limited storage has forced us to turn away valuable donations,” said Maria Hernandez, board chair of the Keizer Community Food Bank. “This expansion will let us serve more households while preserving the dignity of each family we help.”
How the community can help
The food bank is seeking $155,000 in donations to cover a portion of the construction costs. Contributions can be made online through the bank’s website, by mail, or in person at the church’s donation desk. The organization also welcomes in‑kind donations of building materials, paint, and shelving units.
Local businesses have already pledged support. Keizer’s Chamber of Commerce announced a matching‑gift program that will double every dollar donated by its member companies, up to $25,000. Several faith‑based groups have offered volunteer labor for the renovation phase, underscoring the community’s shared commitment to caring for the vulnerable.
Looking ahead
Construction is slated to begin in early November, with an anticipated completion date in late February. Once the new facility is operational, the food bank expects to increase the number of families served each month by roughly 30 percent.
The Keizer Community Food Bank invites all residents to participate in this vital effort, whether through financial contributions, volunteer time, or spreading the word. Together, the community can ensure that no family in Keizer goes hungry.
Original reporting: Salem Reporter — read the source article.
