TF food bank completes upgrades

The Community Harvest Food Bank (CHFB) and Thrift Store has recently completed a project to increase parking space and to bring sidewalk areas in compliance with legal standards for the disabled. The project included demolishing the existing sidewalks, trees, and railings, widening the parking driveway for easier access for the handicapped and food delivery, and removing existing cement barriers. After consulting with experts on the rules for new construction for the disabled, the Food Bank was given guidelines for alterations to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The food bank has provided wholesome food to the local communities of Thompson Falls and Trout Creek for over 25 years. For the two months of August and September, the Food Bank served 372 individuals and gave out 9,095 pounds of food.

Along with some grant money, they receive some assistance from The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), Montana Foodbank Network (MFBN), Bountiful Baskets, and discounts from Harvest Foods and Grocery Surplus. Members of the community have also been generous in their cash and food donations to the center.

CHFB limits participant's income to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. For example, for a household size of one, if your annual income does not exceed $27,180, you are eligible to receive food items. For a household size of four whose annual income does not exceed $55,500, you are eligible to apply for food items. Applying is a relatively painless process. Participants are required to bring identification proving they have a physical address in either Thompson Falls or Trout Creek.

CHFB is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Food Bank is located behind Community Congregational Church on Preston Street and shares a space with the Community Harvest Thrift Store in Thompson Falls. Cash donations for food purchases can be sent to CHFB, P.O. Box 413, Thompson Falls, Montana, 59873. Clothing and household goods can be delivered to the thrift store, and their proceeds are shared with the food bank for purchase of food. For more information, or for volunteering, call (406) 827-6333. CHFB welcomes all who need assistance for emergency food.