Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for food bank services?
Food Bank clients must live in Bonner County and have an income that is below 133% of the Federal Poverty Level. For example, the monthly income limit for a family of four is approximately $2,726 or less. First time clients are asked to bring:
- A photo ID
- Proof of Bonner County residency
- Proof of current income
If you do not have all of these items, come in anyway and we will obtain them at a later date.
Are my donations tax deductible?
The Bonner Community Food Bank is a non-profit 501c 3 organization, therefore all donations to the Food Bank are tax deductible.
Does the Food Bank need volunteers?
Yes!
We love volunteers, and could not manage without them. Currently about 45 people donate time to the Food Bank each month for a total of 600 – 700 volunteer hours. Some of the things volunteers help with are weighing and sorting food donations, keeping food stocked and organized in the market, running the check-out stand and general clean-up. Most of our volunteers come at scheduled times each week, usually half day(s) or whole day(s). If this is more than you can or want to commit to, but you still want to be involved, let us know. There are likely other ways we can use your time and talents.
What kinds of things can I donate?
We accept:
- Food donations (click here to download a current “needs” list)
- Monetary donations (click here to make donation)
- Time donations (click here to download our volunteer application)
Food Donations: The Food Bank welcomes all donations of professionally packaged food, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. Wild game is gladly accepted as long as it has been professionally cut and wrapped. We are also happy to accept farm fresh eggs. The Food Bank has a number of coolers and freezers to keep perishable food fresh. The Food Bank cannot accept homemade or home-processed foods, rusty or unlabeled cans, alcoholic beverages or open packages.
Monetary Donations: Monetary Donations are always welcome, as they can be used for specific needs. It is often more cost effective for the Food Bank to purchase needed items than for an individual to do so. The Food Bank partners with 2nd Harvest Inland Northwest to procure food supplies at reduced cost, as well as a number of other organizations and local grocery stores.
Time Donation: Time is precious, and the time donated by Food Bank volunteers is invaluable to us. Volunteers give 500-600 hours of time to the Food Bank each month. If you would like to join this elite, dedicated, fun-loving group, please let us know!
