Community remodels Othello Food Bank

Project complete mid-November

OTHELLO - The Othello Food Bank renovation is expected to be complete by mid-November and the facility remains open during regular business hours.

The remodel began in June.

The Othello Rotary Club chose the food bank to be their 2008 project because there was need for more space and better equipment to improve service at the facility, Project Manager Roger Thieme said.

"The club decided they wanted to do a major project," he said.

Club members interviewed volunteers to see what was needed at the food bank.

Othello Food Bank Vice Chairman Bob Fuller said since the interview process several project phases were implemented.

He said a loading dock to accept food from the distribution center was constructed. The service counter was expanded and the area where food is distributed is being expanded by approximately 200 square feet.

The increased food distribution space allows for more room while packaging food for clients.

"We got brand new, stainless steel refrigerators and freezers," Fuller said.

Thieme said the refrigeration and freezer space was increased by at least 40 percent.

The food bank is now able to distribute more fresh food to clients, Fuller said.

"I think we're going to take care of their dreams," Thieme said.

Once the project is complete, it's expected to cost between $45,000 and $50,000, Thieme said. The project is possible due to fund-raisers, donations and volunteered help.

The rotary club used money from two main fund-raisers they promote each year, the annual rose sale and the Adams County Fair booth where they sell food.

There were also donations from the Othello Lions Club, businesses and community members, Fuller said.

"This remodel and expansion has been long overdue," he said.

Without the support from the community, it might not have happened, he added.

Fuller said the food bank serves thousands annually. From July 2006 to June 2007, approximately 17,000 were aided by the food bank.

"Oftentimes, that's multiple visits," he said.

Volunteers at the food bank also work with an outreach program. The regular hours of operation at the food bank are from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday and Friday. Sometimes people who need food can't get to the food bank during those hours, he said.

"We're seeing more homeless people," Fuller said.

The food bank is always looking for volunteers, Fuller said. To volunteer, people can contact Bill Briggs at 509-488-2316.

Thieme said there will be an open house once the project is complete.