In 2023, a sharp rise could be seen by local food support systems, including the Ashland Community Food Bank, Rogue Food Unites, and meal programs like Uncle Food’s Diner and the Peace Meal.
“We are consistently serving more people on a weekly basis, even with additional meals provided at local shelters,” said Kerul Dyer, the coordinator of Uncle Food’s Diner. “It’s a shame people are eating outside in the cold for our program, but people continue to come by the dozens, in the dark and amid freezing temperatures.“
An unofficial survey of people who regularly attend the Tuesday evening meal indicates that more than 60 percent of the people who eat at Uncle Food’s Diner dwell in homes and another 15 percent live in vehicles locally.
Amey Broker, the Executive Director of the Ashland Community Food Bank, offered some statistics underscoring the growth in need, including the 149 percent increase in demand since January of 2023. While Ashland’s food bank does not receive government funding, the organization provided more than 11,000 shopping trips during the past 11 months, comprised of nearly 60,000 lbs of food.
The Ashland Community Food Bank receives donations from local grocers, Food Angels, and through the Green Bag Program of the Ashland Food Project. But in 2023, the group had to purchase more basic items like eggs and produce, to keep up with the new needs of Ashland residents. Notwithstanding the challenges, the group has expanded its reach and now provides shelf stable items to distributed locations including the Ashland Library, the SOU pantry, Ashland Middle School and Head Start.
Uncle Food’s Diner, which partners with the Ashland Community Food Bank, Food Angels, Rogue Food Unites, and Market of Choice, provides an average of 120 prepared meals per week both through the Tuesday Community Meal and through other avenues of distribution. The 30 year old project provides nutrient dense, prepared meals to families with small children, seniors, people with disabilities, and anyone needing a hot meal.
In this season of giving, please consider supporting nonprofits that make a difference in people’s lives in sustaining their ability to access healthy, fresh food for their families.
Editor’s Note: As you likely know by now, Uncle Food’s Diner continues to search for an indoor location to serve our meal after the City of Ashland refuses to allow the group to serve in the to-be-remodeled, city-owned Pioneer Hall. To support our efforts or make a suggestion for an appropriate indoor venue, please contact Elizabeth Hallett at info@peacehouse.net.
