Every year since 2000, the Sherm’s family of stores has donated a truckload of food to ACCESS for the holidays. This year, though the COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much, will be no different.

ACCESS says that the Olsrud family will deliver roughly 23,000 pounds of food to the food bank’s warehouse on Friday, now a 20-year tradition. The food bank calls the Olsruds long-time supporters who were instrumental in building the ACCESS Community Kitchen.

“We are so grateful for the support the Olsrud family has given to the community and ACCESS over the years. This year’s semi-truck donation of food will not only help feed thousands of food-insecure individuals and families locally but also gives hope during what has been a bleak time for so many,” says ACCESS Executive Director Carrie Borgen.

Over 2020, ACCESS says that more than 38,000 people received food assistance through ACCESS programs. More than 5.3 million pounds of food were distributed through Jackson County’s 24 food pantries.

“This year, the impact of COVID and the wildfires have increased the threat of food insecurity in Jackson County, and ACCESS has seen the need spike as high as 80 percent more than expected,” the organization said.