Beginning Oct. 1, the Sequim Food Bank will move its Monday night opening to 9 a.m.-noon on Saturdays for the winter and spring.

The change was made at the most recent food bank board meeting where members agreed this would accommodate their users best.

"We wanted to avoid people being cold and in the dark and to be flexible with the working crowd," Sequim Food Bank treasurer Alwynn Lewis said.

Starting on June 15, the summer night hours won't be lost, for board members want to retain them.

"When we get to warmer weather, we'll switch it back," said Stephen Rosales, food bank board president.



New policies

The Monday night services helped an average of 40 people a week, with the most being 55, he said.

Board members added another new policy allowing food bank users to come back three times a month rather than the previous two.

Some items are in abundance at the food bank currently, so board members felt the facility can provide food more often.

"If people get half-gallon of milk but need a gallon and ask, we can provide," Lewis said. "If you have a family of four, it doesn't take long to go through a gallon of milk."



Seeking partners

Broadening the reach of the food bank is in the vision of board members, too.

"We'll consider anything that allows us to reach out to more people," Lewis said.

Rosales said they are looking to partner with local groups to support homebound seniors with meals.

Volunteers have begun prepping nearly 1,600 turkey baskets for Thanksgiving and Christmas that they will distribute.

Rosales said this is hundreds more than last year.

He and volunteers are open to help people in off hours if individuals cannot come during scheduled hours.

"If someone is ever in need, then they can call and come down," Rosales said.

The Sequim Food Bank, 144 W. Alder St., Sequim, is now open 9 a.m.-noon, Monday, Friday and Saturday.

Its number is 683-1205 and Rosales can be reached at 461-6038.

Food and cash donations always are accepted.