The Auburn Food Bank says that it smashed records at its recent Harvest Breakfast, raising nearly $167,000 as demand for food assistance reaches its highest level.
Food bank staff said they entered the event unsure they would be able to meet the growing need, with more clients coming through their doors than ever before and shelves emptying faster than they could be refilled.
According to the food bank, an early “miracle” came when supporters responded quickly to an Amazon wish list request for food donations. Those contributions turned empty shelves into full ones and helped stabilize supplies heading into the holiday season.
The next major boost came from longtime supporter Nixie Van Selus. The food bank reported that shortly before her death she instructed her family to offer a $40,000 matching gift for the breakfast. Donors accepted that challenge and more.
By the end of the event, community members had contributed more than $92,000. With the $40,000 gift from Van Selus, the food bank cleared more than $132,000 dollars, which it called the largest amount it has ever collected at its breakfast.
At the breakfast, Auburn School District Superintendent Dr. Alan Spicciati reminded attendees to “Be generous, not judgmental,” according to the food bank. Staff said that message may have helped inspire yet another surprise.
After the record total was announced, another donor stepped forward with an 18,000 dollar check, saying they felt $150,000 was a better number.
“We LOVE this community so much!” organizers said. “We hope this momentum will continue, here are ways you can continue to help us when you can:
Area Events Supporting Us
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Seahawks at Bogey’s – watch the game at Bogey’s at the Auburn Golf Course and bring a food or cash donation and they will get it to us.
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Frugal’s Gouda Burger – throughout November all net proceeds for the delicious Gouda Burger will come to us. Hurry!
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Fill the truck at Auburn GMC – head over to Auburn GMC with a food donation and fill the truck! They will drive it on over to us.
Or Just Donate!
:We are happy take your donations anytime of the year. Simply visit our donation page and submit your donation via our online donation options or send us a check to the address listed at the end of this email.”
Help Needed! Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
Each year AFB holds a Thanksgiving and Christmas Basket Giveaway to their clients. They typically have 800-1,000 families sign up to receive meal fixings for the holiday, but can always use volunteers to help on distribution day.
Thanksgiving Basket Giveaway
🗓️Nov. 25: 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
📍Holy Family Catholic Church 505 17th St. SE, Auburn
Christmas Basket Giveaway
🗓️Dec. 22: 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
📍Holy Family Catholic Church 505 17th St. SE, Auburn
If you would like to volunteer please reach out to Debbie Christian for the full details.
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