Editor, the VOICE;

Maple Valley Food Bank and Emergency Services helps families who live in Black Diamond, Covington, Hobart, Maple Valley, Ravensdale, and within the boundaries of the Tahoma School District. In September, over 10,291 pounds of food was distributed to our neighbors in need, serving about 250 families each week. We were also able to help households with utility disconnect notices, and eviction notices.

The generous support of our community makes it possible for us to help with these basic needs in our area. We extend heartfelt thanks to all our donors, including many who gave anonymously.

Special thanks to the following business who give to our agency on a weekly basis:, Covington Costco, Kent Bakery Outlet, MV Fred Meyer, MV Grocery Outlet, Pepperidge Farms, Maple Valley QFC, Fairwood Safeway, MV Shell, O-Shields Studio and Springbrook Farms.

Supporting Churches: Cornerstone United Methodist Church, Maple Valley Church of the Nazarene, New Community Church, Peace Lutheran, Maple Valley Presbyterian, Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, St. George Episcopal, Church of St. John the Baptist, and Taylor Creek Church.

Donations: Albert Belcher, Tina Taina, The Nature of Things, Layne & Claudia Barnes, Paul Whitlock, Mary Porterfield, Marlla Mhoon, Richard & Carol Pogers, Kenneth Helfenstein, Emogene Shank-Lortie, Connie Edson, Vincent Badolato, Joan McIntyre, Debra Merlini, Kevin Castleman, Gordon Wilkins, and Steven Lockett

Food Drives & Events: Street Rats collected 220 pounds of food.

Upcoming Events: The Holiday Giving Campaign has began! There are convenient drop off locations for food donations in Maple Valley and Covington. Keep an eye out for one of our red or green gift tags, take one and purchase a gift for a child in need. Drop it off at one of our convenient locations.

Volunteers: Volunteers are the heart of the food bank. It is only with their support that we can work toward building a healthy community free of hunger. To our faithful, volunteer personnel, we send our gratitude! Interested in volunteering? Please visit our website for current needs.

Donations are always needed. We are located at 21415 Renton-Maple Valley Road SE. Non-perishable food donations can also be dropped off at Covington & Maple Valley Libraries and the Greater Maple Valley Community Center. Please go to www.maplevalleyfoodbank.org to donate through our secure website. Our mailing address is PO Box 322, Maple Valley, WA 98038 or call 425-432-8139.

Gratefully yours,

Lila Henderson, Executive Director,

Maple Valley Food Bank and Emergency Services