The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has doubled the number of families the Community Food Basket is serving this year. Realizing that many have had to cancel lunches and meetings, this year, the idea was that canceled lunches could be sent to hungry people.
The Chamber recently cancelled its “Out of the Box” lunches. "We asked our sponsoring businesses and prepaid attendees if they would donate the cost of their lunch or sponsorship to the Community Food Basket and were overwhelmed by the positive responsem" said Chamber CEO Chip Schwarze. "So much so that we decided to reach out to all businesses to support the Community Food Basket."
Michael Hughes, president and CEO of Elevation Labs, volunteered with a $3,000 donation on behalf of his company. "Our hope is that other businesses and individuals will join in and help," he said.
Cash, not cans
By asking for cash donations instead of canned goods, the Community Food Basket can purchase $5 of food for every $1 donated. In other words, a $12 Hope Lunch donation can be turned into $60 worth of groceries. "By giving dollars instead of cans, we can maximize the number of families served," Schwarze said.
All donations will be given directly to the Community Food Basket. Businesses can collect donations from their employees and then call, bring in their donations, or mail a check to the chamber office. Individuals also can go to this link -- “Hope Lunches” -- to make an online donation.
For more information please contact Schwarze at ceo@idahofallschamber.com or call (208) 589-8888.
