Yakima’s Operation Harvest Kicks Off on October 12

The Rotary Club of Yakima is gearing up for its 42nd annual Operation Harvest food drive, a cherished community event dedicated to alleviating hunger in the Yakima Valley. On Saturday, October 12, Rotarians will be traversing neighborhood streets to collect non-perishable food donations left on porches, helping to stock local food banks ahead of the winter months.

FILL THAT BAG WITH GOOD FOOD FOR YOUR NEIGHBORS

Residents are encouraged to participate by filling bags with commercially canned or packaged non-perishable food items and placing them on their porches before 9 a.m. on the morning of the event. Each donation makes a significant impact, providing essential nutrition to families in need throughout the region.

YOU'VE GIVEN A LOT OF HELP OVER THE YEARS 

Last year, Yakima's generous community contributed over 40,000 pounds of food and more than $57,000 in cash donations during Operation Harvest. All collected items will go directly to nine local food banks, including the Yakima Salvation Army, St. Vincent Center, Yakima Rotary Food Bank, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Selah Food Bank, Seventh Day Adventist Food Bank, OIC Food Bank, Highland Food Bank, and Sunrise Outreach.

IT'S A VITAL LIFELINE FOR MANY IN THE YAKIMA VALLEY

"Operation Harvest is more than just a food drive; it’s a vital lifeline for many families in our community," said Rotary Club President Janice Rivers. "As we approach the colder months, the need for food assistance only grows. We invite everyone in Yakima to help us help our neighbors."

YOU CAN DROP OFF YOUR FOOD AND YOU CAN DONATE CASH

For those who may forget to put out their food donations, any leftover items can be brought to local Wray’s Marketfresh IGA locations. Additionally, cash donations can be made online to support the food drive and further extend community support.
This year, the Rotary Club hopes to surpass last year's impressive totals, reaffirming their commitment to serving the Yakima Valley. Join in this worthy endeavor on October 12 and contribute to a cause that nourishes the community.