The event will feature food box assembly and donation collection, alongside a free BBQ lunch and a live outdoor concert by the Camas-Washougal Community Orchestra, a fun and meaningful way for families and individuals to make a difference

WASHOUGAL – The Camas-Washougal community is once again coming together to support local school families facing food insecurity over the summer break. Now in its 11th year, the IMPACT CW (Camas-Washougal) Food Drive, led by volunteers from St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Washougal and members of the community, invites others to join in a day of giving and fellowship on Sunday, June 8, beginning at 12:00 p.m. at Parker’s Landing Historical Park at the Port of Camas-Washougal.

The event will feature food box assembly and donation collection, alongside a free BBQ lunch and a live outdoor concert by the Camas-Washougal Community Orchestra, a fun and meaningful way for families and individuals to make a difference.

“People often associate food drives with the holiday season, but summer is also a time of great need,” said Beth Raetz, IMPACT CW Committee Member and St. Matthew Church Office Secretary. “Many families rely on school meal programs that pause during summer, leaving a critical gap. Our food boxes help bridge that gap until summer meal programs begin.”

This year, food boxes will be packed with pre-selected and pre-purchased food to streamline distribution. Any additional non-perishable food donations brought to the event will be given to the Treasure House food pantry, which is especially in need of high-protein items like peanut butter, canned tuna, and chili.

IMPACT CW continues to grow with support from community groups, families, and volunteers of all ages. “We’re encouraging more local organizations to get involved,” said Raetz. “From scout troops and church groups to businesses and families, it’s inspiring to see everyone come together for a common cause.”

“When I moved to the area five years ago, IMPACT Camas-Washougal was one of the first events I attended,” said Debbie Allen, past event volunteer and ICW committee member. “The idea of spending 30 minutes packing food boxes seemed simple, but meaningful. Over time, it became a favorite tradition.”

Last year, Allen joined the planning committee and gained a deep appreciation for the work that happens behind the scenes. This opened her eyes to community needs and the power of coordinated service.

“This experience has impacted me personally as well,” she explained. “I’ve been inspired by the faith and compassion of my fellow committee members, who are guided by their desire to share the love of Jesus through action. IMPACT Camas-Washougal isn’t just about feeding families. It’s about building community, forming connections, and creating lasting changes, for everyone involved.”

Those who can’t attend but still wish to contribute can give a financial donation to help cover the cost of food and grocery gift cards. Please consider donations of $5, $10 or $20 toward the $19,000 goal to feed local students.  Organizations/businesses (or individuals) donating at least $100 or more can be listed as “Community Partners” on cards inside food boxes, on the IMPACT CW website, and other promotional materials. Contact Beth Raetz, listed below, to be included.   Donations can be made by check payable to St. Matthew Lutheran Church, mailed or dropped off at 716 Washougal River Road, Washougal, WA 98671 (Tues–Fri, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.). Donors can also visit www.impactcamaswashougal.org to give through a GoFundMe drive.

Impact CW would like to extend big thank yous to the Camas-Washougal Community Chest, Waste Connections, Costco, and Thrivent Financial for their generous support through grants or donations.

Local school districts are currently identifying families in need. If you or someone you know could benefit from a food box and a grocery store gift card and are not already enrolled in the schools’ backpack programs, please contact your school counselor or principal as soon as possible.

For more information, please contact Beth Raetz at (360) 835-5533, email stmatthewlcms@comcast.net, or visit impactcamaswashougal.org.

Information courtesy Rene Carroll, Impact Camas-Washougal.