This is the second year that Fred Meyer has made a big donation to the food bank, a new tradition now that the free pancake breakfast at the fair has been discontinued

Paul Valencia
ClarkCountyToday.com

RIDGEFIELD — It was a tradition for so many who attended the Clark County Fair on opening day. Families and friends would get there early for the pancake breakfast.

So, yes, many were disappointed when the breakfast was discontinued.

Well, a new tradition has emerged, one that can do a lot of good for the community.

For the past two years, Fred Meyer, the main sponsor of the breakfast, has been donating to the Clark County Food Bank.

On Friday, the Clark County Food Bank graciously accepted a check from Fred Meyer for $7,500 at the Holt Homes Community Stage, part of opening day festivities at the 2024 Clark County Fair. 

Tiffany Sanders, corporate affairs manager for Fred Meyer, said the company revisited its plans for community projects during and soon after the pandemic.

“How can we have the greatest impact in Clark County? We recognize that the pancake breakfast is so popular and people love it. We also recognize that we are hearing from the Clark County Food Bank and they are saying an unprecedented number of people are coming in asking for food,” Sanders explained. “It made sense to us to make sure the Clark County Food Bank has what they need.”

“We are overwhelmed and really appreciate Fred Meyer for this wonderful gift,” said Rachel Beck, director of development for the Clark County Food Bank. 

For the most part, the feedback has been positive, Sanders said.

“Obviously people miss the pancake breakfast, but people also really recognize this has a greater impact on getting food to the people who need it right here in Clark County,” Sanders said.

“With almost 25 percent of the population of Southwest Washington experiencing hunger, Clark County Food Bank relies on the generosity of our community to support our most vulnerable neighbors, friends and families,” Beck said.