North Mason Food Bank gets relocation money

The North Mason Food Bank will be relocating to a larger building, helped in part by $47,000 in state money secured in the last legislative session.

The nonprofit group recently purchased the property at 24131 NE state Route 3, Belfair, in the old HD’s Pub’s building just a few miles from its current location.

“For more than 20 years we have been operating out of a small, converted house on a main highway. Parking is extremely limited, and our clients have to back out onto the busy road. In addition, we are very small, so our folks wait outside in the weather or in their cars to be served,” the food bank said in a news release.

“At North Mason Food Bank we prioritize not only feeding bodies, but nourishing spirits as well. Our clients choose their own foods, while trading jokes, recipes and life lessons. We strive to meet nutritional needs and preferences. We work towards building community and creating a space where abundance can be shared,” according to the release.

Executive Director Tara Schmidt told the Journal the move will start at the end of May and hopefully be complete by June. The food bank has started informing current clients and will post information for the public about the relocation soon, she said.

Reps. Travis Couture and Dan Griffey, both Republicans from Allyn, said they were “happy to help” secure funds for the move, according to Schmidt.

“We really appreciate their support,” Schmidt said.

“These investments will bring real change that will go a long way for our kids, our families, and those most vulnerable in our community. I am grateful to my seatmates for this team effort,” Griffey said in a joint statement with Couture about the supplemental budget that includes $16 million for local projects.

The food bank serves about 120 families a week and provides 30,000 pounds of food per month, according to its website.

Schmidt said anyone who wants to donate or volunteer can go to the group’s website at http://www.northmasonfoodbank.org.