A Work of Mercy:   Food boxes to those in need

A USDA grant has made it possible for Oregon families to get FREE produce, dairy or combo   boxes which will be distributed at Archdiocese of Portland Catholic Churches throughout Oregon. The Archdiocese has also partnered with several other faith-based organizations, local food pantries, civic organizations and homeless shelters.

As the COVID-19 pandemic grips Oregon, many are struggling to meet their basic needs and adjust to rapidly changing access to everything from grocery stores to medical attention. And for about 400,000 now-jobless Oregonians, being able to afford food is a new reality. Many others struggle with isolation and can't travel to their local grocery store. The USDA food box program ensures that lack of financial resources, transportation, isolation and grocery store scarcity do not create a barrier to fresh food.
 
In order to expedite the delivery of food to Oregonians as quickly and efficiently as possible, USDA has partnered with Pacific Coast Fruit to provide 275,000 food boxes per month. In order to make that happen, Pacific Coast Fruit has partnered with the Archdiocese of Portland to distribute boxes to the needy of our state through June 30, 2020. If the program is successful, USDA may elect to extend the program depending upon program success and available remaining funds.    

Who may receive a free USDA Food Box?
There is no requirement to prove need. This USDA Food Box program ensures that lack of transportation, isolation and grocery store scarcity do not create a barrier to fresh food.
  
How do I arrange to pick up a Food Box for my family?
Simply find the closest Public Distribution location listed. No appointment necessary. Please arrive between the distribution times listed for each location. Quantities are limited, so arrive early.
 
What are the contents of the three different boxes?
The weight of each box is approximately 20–25 pounds. Dimensions are 16x12x10 and contain:
DAIRY          Eggs, milk, butter, yogurt, cheddar cheese & jack cheese
PRODUCE   Apples, oranges, strawberries, potatoes, onion, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, lettuce, carrots
COMBO        Deli ham & turkey, milk, cheddar& jack cheese, carrots, apples, celery, lettuce, tomatoes

Do I have a choice in selecting a specific type of box?
Each of the three types of food boxes is randomly available and changes daily. Please note that all of this food is temperature controlled for safety, and must be kept out of the temperature danger zone.

How many USDA boxes are being distributed?
Pacific Coast Fruit Company and their distribution network are positioned to distribute over 90,000 food boxes every WEEK thoughout Western Oregon. 

Is it possible to pick up more than one box for seniors or neighbors?
Many families plan on identifying home-bound neighbors, friends in need & senior care facilities... and delivering boxes to their door. Please call the distribution site before arriving for pick-up to confirm this request. Some sites are limiting the number of boxes each family may take due to inventory or demand. 

How long will this USDA Farmers to Families program run?
The first phase of distribution of Food Boxes will end on June 30th. If successful, and if funding is available, the USDA may extend for several more months.

Is it possible for our faith-based group or non-profit to also distribute boxes to our constituents?
Absolutely. If you are capable of distributing 140 or more boxes, please complete the application on this page. Your entity must provide proof of a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or a government entity and  demonstrate that you have the capability to safely distribute the boxes directly to those in need.  
 
How can I help volunteer at a distribution location?
Contact the Food Box distribution location directly as each location has a great need for volunteers.

What safety precautions are in place for volunteers? 
Food Boxes will be loaded into the trunk of vehicles in our parking lots to keep everyone safe. Drivers and volunteers are asked to maintain physical distancing while distributing vital food resources, in accordance with CDC best practices.  Volunteers will be wearing their own their own Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). 

Have more questions than these answers?  
Please email us at dpm@archdpdx.org and we will contact you within one working day.