Superior Food Bank steps up and meets needs during crisis

With the recent COVID-19 related job layoffs and families seeking unemployment benefits Superior’s Food Bank has also been increasing their hours and providing extra assistance to those in need.

“Some Fridays have been really busy, it’s just about doubled in the number of people coming,” remarked Food Bank Manager, Marlene Adair of the increased traffic of Mineral County residents since the quarantine began.

Normally the food bank serves community members every Friday from 10 a.m. to noon and reopens after lunch from 1-3 p.m. The food bank staff decided it was important to extend hours during the pandemic to meet a greater need.

Now, doors are open until 12:30 p.m. closing for a half hour lunch, and shutting down for the day at 3:30 p.m.

Anyone in Mineral County can come and receive assistance but must provide proof of low income.

“You can come more than once a month, I know that there are a lot of people having a hard time,” Adair said.

In several different roles Adair has volunteered at the food bank since 2002. She explained that the county receives shipments through the Montana Food Bank Network, but any items that they are not able to provide the local food bank purchases.

Through generous contributions the food bank has been able to supply basic necessities during these trying times.

Recent community driven events like the Friday night COVID Cruises that took place in April generated donations from drivers dropping off non-perishable food items to support the food bank.

“A lot more people are giving food and financial gifts, which is really wonderful. We are getting one donation from Idaho Forest Group, it’s really a nice surprise seeing them supporting our community and county,” said Adair.

There have been many new faces coming for food support, but also several of the same.

“If you are in need, you need to come. I would prefer that you come now than when things get really bad for someone,” Adair said. “There are always some that feel that other people are more in need, but you don’t have to wait, every little bit helps.”

Even when the work is stressful and tiring Adair shared a frequent sentiment of volunteers everywhere.

“It makes me feel good to help people around here, I just wish this virus would be over.”

Adair encouraged those wishing to make a monetary contribution to send their financial gifts to P.O. Box 46, Superior, Montana, 59872.

To arrange a dropoff time for food items or donations contact Adair at 822-1930.