Food banks are among the most prominent charities in the country, with over 60,000 food banks and pantries across America serving approximately 1 in 8 individuals. In the past year, these food banks provided six billion meals to those in need. One noteworthy example is the Bonner Community Food Bank, a vital nonprofit that is responding to a rapidly growing population in need of its services.


Compassion in action 


The Bonner Community Food Bank (BCFB), based in Sandpoint with a sister branch in Priest River, is a model of compassionate food assistance. I had the privilege of speaking with Executive Director Debbie Love, Priest River Food Bank Manager Patti Ahlers, and Development and Volunteer Coordinator Ana Kampe. Together with a dedicated team of volunteers, they have fostered a welcoming and non-judgmental environment for those seeking help.


Upon entering the BCFB office, you're greeted by a cozy fireplace and seasonal decorations, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a charming diner rather than a typical food bank. I don’t know if I was expecting something more corporate or sterile, but “homey” was certainly not on my shortlist of adjectives I thought I might use to describe the space. This inviting atmosphere extends to the warehouse, where clients “shop” for food.


shop til you drop


Bonner Community Food Bank is a trailblazer in food bank operations, having adopted a market-style shopping approach years ago. Although it paused during COVID-19, the model was quickly reinstated, inspiring others like the Post Falls Food Bank to observe and implement similar practices. Clients at BCFB are given shopping carts and points each month based on their household size, allowing them to choose items displayed like they would be in a grocery store. This approach not only preserves dignity but also reduces waste, contrasting sharply with the traditional model of handing off pre-packed boxes to clients full of stuff they may or may not want.


In addition to this innovative shopping experience, BCFB continuously sets a high standard in waste reduction. Through their Grocery Rescue program in partnership with Second Harvest, they collaborate with five local grocery stores to obtain food that is past its sell-by date but still safe to eat. Following Second Harvest guidelines, BCFB can ensure the safety and quality of the food they distribute. They sometimes receive food like tangerines that are too small or exotic items that, while still perfectly safe to eat, have simply lingered on grocery store shelves for too long.


Community Connections


Any unusable food or truly expired produce is donated to local hog farmers. The food bank also benefits from its location in a hunting-centric region, allowing them to accept USDA-processed wild game and farm-raised animals. Located in Sandpoint, Wood’s Meats Processing, a USDA-certified processor, offers discounted services to BCFB. Many food banks lack access to USDA-certified processors and cannot accept locally processed meat. The food bank even explores options for utilizing roadkill; recently, the city had to put down a deer that was injured by a car. The city then called BCFB who coordinated with a local individual to process the deer and take it home. That meat didn’t end up in the freezer at BCFB but it still helped feed a local. The food bank's successful operations are deeply rooted in community networking. In addition to wild game and farm-raised meat, they receive trout from Idaho Fish and Game during the fall and spring.


“Do you ever feel like the folks eating here have better meals than you do with all this fresh game and fish?” I asked, half-jokingly.


“YES!” they all responded with laughter.


And remember, USDA rules don’t apply to produce from personal gardens—so feel free to bring in those extra zucchinis from your backyard! The food bank also accepts non-food items such as toilet paper, diapers etc. 


“A lot of families receiving SNAP benefits can’t use their food stamp cards to buy toothpaste or feminine hygiene products, so we make it a priority to provide non-food items for our patrons as well,” Debbie explained.


While the warehouse can sometimes be full, there are certainly ebbs and flows in availability.

“If you had come in last week, you would have seen an empty warehouse,” Debbie said.




Support all year long


Bonner Community Food Bank has experienced a staggering 53% increase in need over the past two years. Historically, summer months brought fewer donations and clients, but that pattern has shifted. Now, demand remains consistent throughout the year, driven by a changing population, economic challenges, and the unique nature of seasonal employment in the area. Many folks work jobs associated with the winter ski season, leaving some seasonal workers without jobs during the summer months. Our food bank is rising to the challenge and meeting the growing demand. No one should feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek assistance.


“I often hear from people who say they might only come in this one time, and I always reassure them that’s perfectly fine. Whether it’s just once or on a monthly basis, we are here to help,” Patti said.


At BCFB, confidentiality is a priority; what happens there stays there. The food bank buzzes with activity—from volunteers and donors to fellow clients—making it hard to distinguish one person from another. Many patrons are pleasantly surprised by how lively and fun the environment is.


There is always a need for more support. While people often think of food banks during the winter holiday season, BCFB operates year-round. Hunger knows no season. Demands may fluctuate, but many overlook the need for items like baking supplies, spices, and condiments that are essential year round. The food bank has seasonal food needs, whether in winter or summer, so feel free to ask for their current lists.

Bonner Community Food Bank offers more than just free food; it fosters meaningful connections. Staff and volunteers take the time to get to know and enjoy their regular visitors. They also frequently connect individuals and families in need to additional resources, such as the EnVision Center. Someone may walk into the food bank for the first time feeling nervous or uncertain, but they leave feeling supported and unjudged.


“It sounds cliche but so many days could be my favorite day here. It’s truly a joyful place to work and give back,” reflects Debbie.


Learn more about Bonner Community Food bank at bonnerfoodbank.org

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SOURCES

  1. https://www.feedingamerica.org/about-us/press-room/53-million-received-help-2021
  2. https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2019/06/30/735881297/opinion-being-hungry-in-america-is-hard-work-food-banks-need-your-help
  3. https://www.foodbanking.org/blogs/food-banks-provided-vital-services-to-meet-high-demand/#:~:text=Food%20banks%20members%20of%20The%20Global%20FoodBanking%20Network,seen%20since%20the%20height%20of%20the%20COVID%20pandemic.
  4. https://www.bonnerfoodbank.org/
  5. https://3rdavenuemarketplace.org/
  6. https://2-harvest.org/2024/03/21/grocery-rescue-changing-lives-daily-march-22/
  7. https://2-harvest.org/
  8. https://www.woodsmeatprocessing.com/

Love With Our Actions

By Linnis Jellinek • April 6, 2025
​Love in Action Idaho is revolutionizing community support by connecting donors directly with specific needs in Bonner County. Through their online registry, you can choose exactly where your contribution goes, ensuring 100% of your donation aids those facing challenges. Discover how you can make a tangible difference today at Love in Action Idaho's website.

Strength in Inclusion

By Linnis Jellinek • March 27, 2025
When Kelli Bult couldn’t find a fitness space that welcomed her son Caleb—born 10 weeks premature with unique physical and cognitive needs—she created one. What began as a personal journey turned into a powerful nonprofit: The Unique Center for Athletes of All Needs (UCAN). UCAN is not your average gym. It’s a community-driven, adaptive fitness center that empowers individuals of all abilities to move, grow, and thrive together. From padded play structures and wheelchair-accessible equipment to inclusive classes and tiered pricing, UCAN is redefining what accessibility looks like in the fitness world—and beyond. 💪 Fitness meets inclusion 💡 Innovation meets compassion ❤️ A nonprofit model that lifts everyone Learn how this mom turned a challenge into a movement, and how your support can help UCAN grow even stronger.
7B Care Clinic - More Than Ultrasounds

More Than Ultrasounds

By Linnis Jellinek • March 11, 2025
When you think of pregnancy resource centers, you might picture a place for those in crisis—but 7B Care Clinic is so much more. From free ultrasounds and parenting education to mentoring programs for fathers and financial coaching, they provide long-term support for families in all situations.

A Firm Foundation

By Linnis Jellinek • March 4, 2025
Since 1974, Innovia has been a powerful force for philanthropy, helping communities thrive through strategic grants, donor support, and nonprofit sustainability initiatives. As a large community foundation, with $200 million in assets and $124 million in grants awarded, Innovia plays a critical role in supporting organizations across Bonner and Boundary counties. Through endowments, coaching, and fundraising initiatives, Innovia helps nonprofits become more sustainable and less reliant on unpredictable grant cycles. With programs like the Thriving Community Summit on March 17th and the Live Give 7B Campaign (April 14-18), Innovia continues to foster collaboration, financial stability, and community-driven philanthropy. Learn how Innovia is making an impact in North Idaho and how you can get involved! 📅 Thriving Community Summit – March 17th, Spokane 📅 Live Give 7B Campaign – April 14-18, ending with a celebration at Matchwood Brewing
Senior advocacy and the importance of community support for aging populations in Bonner County

Honoring Paul Graves and the Future of the Geezer Forum

February 19, 2025
Aging comes with unique challenges, but it also presents an opportunity to share wisdom and build stronger communities. In our latest blog, we sit down with Paul Graves, founder of the Geezer Forum and Elder Advocates, along with Lisa Bond from the Sandpoint Senior Center, to discuss the importance of community support for seniors. With 30% of Bonner County’s population over 65 and issues like healthcare, transportation, and financial security being top concerns, we explore how initiatives like the Geezer Forum Podcast will preserve stories, provide resources, and strengthen intergenerational connections. Read on to learn how we’re ensuring that aging in Bonner County means aging with dignity and support.
Chrystle Horvath, Executive Director of Bonner Community Housing Agency, discussing the urgent need

Helping Through Housing

By Linnis Jellinek • February 18, 2025
Affordable housing is a critical issue in Bonner County, and over 300 families are currently on the Bonner Community Housing Agency (BCHA) waiting list. In our latest blog, we sit down with Chrystle Horvath, Executive Director of BCHA, to discuss her journey into housing advocacy, the growing need for affordable homes, and how BCHA is working to provide secure housing for essential workers like nurses, teachers, and first responders. With an ambitious goal of 100 new affordable homes in the next five years, BCHA is making a lasting impact—but they need community support to make it happen. Read more to learn how you can help!

Your Friendly Neighborhood Digital Navigator

By Linnis Jellinek • February 8, 2025
Your Friendly Neighborhood Digital Navigator Quantifying what our Digital Navigator, Chris Watson, brings to the EnVision Center can be a little tricky. Not because it is especially complex but because there is such a wide variety of tasks and talents he employs here to help clients. We are very fortunate to have access to these skills through his placement with us via AmeriCorps . To understand Chris's role, it helps to first understand what AmeriCorps does. As Chris explains, the best way to think of AmeriCorps is as a domestic counterpart to the Peace Corps—while the Peace Corps focuses on international aid, AmeriCorps addresses pressing issues within the U.S. like hunger, disaster relief, and illiteracy. Chris is part of the American Connection Corps (ACC), a program within AmeriCorps dedicated to closing the digital divide. ACC focuses on providing broadband access and promoting digital literacy, particularly in rural areas. By improving connectivity, the goal is to foster economic development in underserved communities. Chris’s term of service is one year, with the possibility of renewing it for up to four years. A key idea behind the ACC is that long-term success comes from training local community members, who already understand the culture and have built trust, rather than bringing in outsiders. Chris is a great fit for this model, as he split his childhood between Sandpoint and Coeur d’Alene, giving him deep roots in the area. Ironically, Chris didn’t even know what a Digital Navigator was when he first applied. “Construction is very physical, and my body was breaking down, so I was looking for a change. I saw the AmeriCorps ad on Indeed and applied on a whim,” Chris recalls. It turns out that Chris’s role as a Digital Navigator has become a dream job—one he doesn’t want to leave. Digital Navigators come from all walks of life, and the most important qualification isn’t a tech background, but the ability to connect with the community. In exchange for their service, navigators receive a stipend, service hours, and an education award or scholarship. Host sites like the EnVision Center provide mentorship, but other organizations, such as universities and libraries, can also serve as hosts. Chris has been with the EnVision Center for just over a quarter, and much of his client base comes from word of mouth. He offers both phone and in-person assistance and hosts educational sessions on a range of topics, from using Google Workspace to understanding cybersecurity. Chris also helps clients recognize and protect themselves from phishing scams and identity theft. While his typical clients tend to be older adults, he’s found that even younger people often need help navigating desktop computers and maximizing software capabilities, despite being proficient with phones or tablets. While assisting with technology, Chris also keeps an eye out for broader ways the EnVision Center can serve clients who come to him for help. “I try to make a personal connection with people because they’re people first,” says Chris. “I’m here to help, whether it’s with a technology issue or something deeper. It’s about serving the community and giving back. This is my job, and that’s what I do—serve clients.” At the EnVision center, Chris helped us set up our reader board and get our podcast on Spotify. He has also been instrumental in assisting with grant writing for the EnVision Center, and his contributions extend far beyond just digital support. We are incredibly grateful for Chris’s dedication, and with his continued support, we look forward to expanding our impact and serving even more members of our community. 

Shelter Meets Salvation at Bonner Gospel Mission

By Linnis Jellinek • January 28, 2025
Bonner Gospel Mission (BGM) has been a cornerstone of service in Bonner County for decades, operating out of Ponderay. While most locals are familiar with its location and purpose, there are still some misconceptions, and it's easy to overlook the profound impact BGM makes in the community. Bonner Gospel Mission is not simply a shelter for men, they are a ministry first that exists to see God move in the lives of the men that come through their doors. The organization's core belief is that once men hear the gospel their lives will begin to change and soon they won’t need the support BGM offers. While food, shelter, and support for next steps are important, they are secondary to the primary goal of sharing the gospel and helping men grow spiritually. “We really look at ourselves more as a Ministry than a homeless shelter,” explains Executive Director Lucas Sheetz. “We're completely independent, we're not tied directly to any other larger organization or any church, it's just our own independent Ministry that gets supported by businesses, individuals and churches in the area so we have a different vision statement than maybe some other homeless shelters people know about.” While the gospel is at the heart of their work, BGM also provides essential services, including shelter, clothing, showers, and companionship. The shelter typically hosts about ten men at a time, providing three meals a day and helping them acquire basic necessities. Residents are expected to contribute to the upkeep of the facility and adhere to a code of conduct, which includes rules like no alcohol or drugs, respectful language, and mandatory Bible study and church attendance. On average, men stay for about 30 days, though BGM tailors support to each individual’s needs. They work with residents on a case-by-case basis, offering flexibility for those saving up for rent or needing more time to transition. BGM also partners with the EnVision Center to connect clients with job opportunities and training. One of the key differences between BGM and typical shelters is their lack of a waitlist. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with immediate placements available after an interview with Lucas, if it’s a good fit. Lucas Sheetz, who became BGM’s Executive Director in May 2024, has an unconventional path to the role. Formerly an independent landscaping and construction contractor, Lucas felt a calling from God that shifted his direction dramatically. “God woke me up in the middle of the night and said there was more he had in store for me,” Lucas recalls. “I didn’t know what it was, but I said I’d go wherever he led me.” His story resonated with the board, and soon after, Lucas was in training for the role. Now, with just one other paid employee, BGM relies heavily on volunteers and donors. The mission depends on donations for everything, from food to clothing. Community members are encouraged to bring homemade meals to the shelter, and the mission can always use frozen meals like casseroles and pastas for later use. Volunteers also help lead Bible studies, worship music, and provide transportation to church. The mission’s occasional free community dinners require upwards of 40 volunteers to run. Bonner Gospel Mission is a beacon of transformation in Bonner County, offering more than just shelter, but a genuine ministry focused on changing lives through the gospel. By providing not only basic necessities but also spiritual guidance, BGM helps men find purpose and direction as they rebuild their lives. With the ongoing support from local donors and volunteers, Bonner Gospel Mission continues to fulfill its mission with unwavering dedication. Their work reminds us all that profound change comes through faith, community, and the willingness to help others walk the path toward a brighter future.

Women In Nonprofits

By Linnis Jellinek • January 20, 2025
At the Community Resource EnVision Center, we work with a lot of women. It feels like most of our volunteers are women, and for a long time, our board was predominantly made up of women. Men represent less than a third of the attendees at our executive director co-labs. So we got curious and decided to look into it: are women as overrepresented in nonprofit work as it feels like they are? Quantifying engagement in nonprofit work is tricky. Many nonprofits don’t track who volunteers or participates on a consistent basis throughout the year. It’s not like anyone is keeping detailed records on who is chaperoning field trips or volunteering for church events. If we had access to these numbers, they would likely tell an interesting story, but they’re nearly impossible to obtain. Instead, we took a look at female involvement through the lens of board membership and paid staff positions. In Bonner and Boundary counties, nonprofits with accessible leadership data report that 58% of workers or volunteers are women. When you dig further you discover women have long been at the heart of change in our communities. In 1985, it was three women who saved the Historic Panida Theater , a beloved landmark in Sandpoint. A woman behind the creation of Lost in the '50s , now a mainstay event in Sandpoint. Two women, who in 1979 formed the Community Assistance League simply because “the town had very little for women to do, and a lot of areas in need of improvement.” Women who changed the education landscape in this area and founded hospitals. And it was the untimely death of Sandpoint resident Kathy Pelland, known for the way she selflessly gave to so many around her that inspired the formation of Angels Over Sandpoint which since 1997 has raised over $1.5 million for locals in need. In more recent years, women have continued to lead transformative projects. Katie Cox led the charge to save Sled Hill as the Executive Director of Kaniksu Land Trust. Karin Wedemeyer founded the Sandpoint Music Conservatory , nurturing local talent and creativity. Lois Renk Wythe was the inspiration and the driving force behind the creation of the Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society and North Idaho Native Plant Arboretum . And in 2016, 101 Women was formed, giving away two $10,000 gifts each year to support needy causes and organizations in the area. Northern Idaho stands out in its nonprofit landscape. A higher percentage of women hold leadership roles compared to general staff, suggesting that women are more likely than men to pursue or be nominated for leadership positions here. Women in Northern Idaho aren’t just leading—they’re transforming our community. From saving historic landmarks to nurturing our arts, culture, and environment, women are leaving their mark in every corner of our region. This is a testament to the unique local culture that makes our nonprofit sector thrive. Feeling inspired to make a change? Visit us at crecidaho.com/volunteer to learn how you can plug into our community. Or click on the logo below to get more information on these women led nonprofits!

More Than Sandpoint

By Linnis Jellinek • January 20, 2025
BONNER COUNTY IS MORE THAN JUST SANDPOINT In 2011, Sandpoint gained national recognition when Rand McNally and USA Today named it "America’s Most Beautiful Small Town." While this title brought pride to many, it wasn’t a surprise to the locals who already knew what the country would learn: Sandpoint is a special place. The recognition acknowledged more than just the town's stunning surroundings—its residents, their commitment to preserving its natural beauty, and the care taken to protect the town's character were key factors in earning that distinction. Sure, Sandpoint is blessed with stunning scenery and a unique blend of ski town and lakeside charm. However, we’ve all seen other beautiful places that haven't been as thoughtfully nurtured or protected—and those places rarely make, let alone top, such lists. Preserving a community’s beauty isn’t enough; it’s equally important to care for the people who call it home. The name “Sandpoint” carries significant weight and, in many ways, serves as the heartbeat of Bonner County. In fact, there are over 25 local Facebook groups dedicated to Sandpoint, while other towns in the county typically have just one or two. However, Bonner County itself is made up of many diverse communities. Bonner County includes eight cities, three census-designated areas, and nine unincorporated communities. Sandpoint, the county’s largest city, may be the most well-known, but it is by no means the only place where important work is happening. Bonner County is home to over 500 nonprofits , and nearly 41% of them are based outside of Sandpoint. The tiny town of Hope, in fact, has the most nonprofits per capita in the county. There are diverse needs across the county, and many of the challenges are felt most acutely in areas outside of Sandpoint. At the Community Resource EnVision Center, we witness firsthand the unique challenges faced by women, veterans, and the elderly—groups often disproportionately represented among our clients in crisis. In Bonner County, where the population is evenly split between men and women, areas like Dover stand out, with 58% of residents being female. Our county is also home to a large veteran population—11.3%, nearly double the national average of 6%. In places like Clark Fork, the number of veterans per capita is nearly twice that of Sandpoint. Additionally, communities like East Hope and Hope have a median age over 60, while other areas of the county are much younger. While we lack detailed data on all our clientele's origins across Northern Idaho, we know that residents of Clark Fork, Hope, and Priest River are in fact overrepresented, while those from Sandpoint and Sagle are underrepresented. Of course, the needs of our county are more nuanced than simple demographic breakdowns. There is a prevailing sentiment that much of our blue-collar workforce is being pushed out of Sandpoint due to rising costs—and there is certainly some truth to this. However, according to the Cost of Living calculator on BestPlaces.net, Sandpoint ranks somewhere in the middle when comparing the most expensive to least expensive cities in Bonner County. Hope tops the list, followed by Dover, with Ponderay being the most affordable. This is particularly concerning given the high number of elderly residents in Hope. If they are wealthier retirees, the impact may be less significant, but for generational locals, it could be a serious challenge. While violence and crime are often seen as urban issues, rural counties face their own significant challenges. The isolation and limited resources in rural areas can have a particularly harsh impact on vulnerable populations, including the elderly, women, and children. Many may not realize that, according to the Rural Health Information Hub and various studies, although violent crime rates are generally lower in rural areas, the rates of rape and murder are actually higher. Additionally, the National Incidence Study of Child Abuse and Neglect report found that rural children are nearly twice as likely to experience maltreatment—including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect—compared to their urban counterparts. While this disparity may partly be due to higher survey response rates in rural areas, it’s a critical issue that warrants attention. Bonner County, like many rural communities, is not exempt from these unique challenges. To help address some of these issues, Priest River Ministries Advocates for Women is making a significant impact outside of Sandpoint. This nonprofit provides essential services for women and children affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking. They offer guidance, support, advocacy, education, and shelter. With locations in Spirit Lake, Priest River, and Sandpoint, they provided 857 nights of emergency shelter in 2023 and housed 120 women and children in need. While Sandpoint may be the heartbeat of Bonner County, the challenges we face aren’t confined to this town, nor are the solutions. Nonprofit support exists throughout the county, addressing the diverse needs and issues in every corner. If Sandpoint is thriving but the rest of the county is struggling, we all fail as a community—and the same can be said the other way around. The Community Resource EnVision Center is dedicated to helping not only Sandpoint and Bonner County, but also neighboring Boundary County. We have two Rural Resource Specialists who connect with community members at libraries, food banks, senior centers, and low-income housing in Priest River, Bonners Ferry, and Clark Fork. By building meaningful relationships with individuals facing systemic challenges, we ensure that when a need arises, they know where to turn for support in reaching their full potential. As the old saying goes, 'You’re only as strong as your weakest link.' Let’s work together to ensure that Bonner County doesn’t have one.