HUNGER PREVENTION COALITION ACHIEVES MILESTONES

Look for Help Fill Empty Plates placards at participating grocers to support our mission.

The Hunger Prevention Coalition of Central Oregon (HPC) has quietly been making a huge impact throughout our Central Oregon community. While celebrating its 20th anniversary, HPC has passed the $1,000,000 mark in funds raised and distributed to partner agencies for the sole purpose of increasing the nutritional quality of food available to our neighbors in need.

Because of HPC’s assistance, the participating food kitchens and outlets are able to include more fresh fruits, vegetables, and proteins – such as meat, dairy products, and eggs- in every meal and food box Each year, partner agencies (currently there are 14) may apply for a percentage of the funds raised by HPC in the upcoming fiscal cycle. In return the agencies assure that every dollar is used only for nutritious food and that no money or service is required of the recipients. 

This year HPC is, once again, sending 100% of all money raised to the participant agencies, as earmarked income from an endowment and member fees now full cover the minimal overhead expenses of the all-volunteer organization. The endowment was established with funds raised through the extraordinary generosity of Newport Avenue Market, which held several golf tournaments for the benefit of HPC early in their formation. Among the Coalition’s earliest booster, the Market also has been featuring them on their counters ever since. As Rudy Dory, the founder of Newport Avenue Market said all those years ago, “No one should ever go hungry”. 

Robin Popp, HPC Board President, notes, “Most of the funds we raise come from individuals, especially those who use the check-out coupons on Help Fill Empty Plates placards in participating grocers such as Newport Avenue Market, Oliver Lemon’s Foodd4Less, and Ray’s Food Place. Funds are also raised through grants and events.” Robin pointed out that the people benefiting from these funds live not only in Bend , but in Prineville, Redmond, Warm Springs, LaPine, and areas in between. 

To learn more about the Hunger Prevention Coalition visit the website hungerpc.org.