Frequently Asked Questions
Basics and Operations
What is the mission of the Bonner Community Food Bank?
To assist people in Bonner County with supplemental foods in a time of personal crisis.
Where is the food bank located?
1707 Culvers Drive, Sandpoint ID 83864 or 45 S. McKinley, Suite 107, Priest River ID 83856.
What are the hours of operation?
Sandpoint Location:
Monday 10:00am-4:30pm
Tuesday & Thursday
9:00 am-2:30pm
Wednesday & Friday 9:00am-12:30pm
Services
Who qualifies for food assistance?
Anyone can get help - just call or come in. There are additional food assistance programs that are tied to income levels, but main BCFB assistance is open to anyone.
How often can someone receive assistance?
Shoppers can come in once a week.
What types of food and products are typically available?
Most kinds of food, also diapers and formula, and some hygiene items.
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Donations
What type of donations do you accept ?
Garden produce, tree fruit, food baked or meals cooked in a commercial kitchen, meat processed at a USDA certified facility. No alcohol or home canned foods. Non-food items: Egg cartons, paper bags with handles, plastic grocery bags, cleaning supplies, toiletries, diapers, wipes.
Are there specific food items you need most?
How can I make a monetary donation? Is it tax-deductible?
Bonner Community Food Bank is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible. Our EIN is
82-0385747. Come by to drop off or mail in a check or donate online. Drop-off locations for any type of donations are at the Food Bank M-F from 8am-3pm, or Yokes and Super Drug for non-perishables.
Volunteering
How can I volunteer?
Fill out an application on our website or in-person. We will schedule a time for a brief orientation, then get to work on supporting the mission of the food bank!
Are there age or other requirements to volunteer?
Volunteers between the ages of 8 and 18 must have a guardian fill out a minor waiver and have an adult present supervising during their volunteer shift. Click HERE to download application and our minor waiver for volunteering.
Do you need regular volunteers or can I volunteer occasionally?
Ideally we’d love to have volunteers on a regular basis. Some folks have been volunteering regularly for over a decade! We know that life circumstances can change quickly - so we are happy to accommodate whatever time a volunteer can contribute. Just give us a call and we can talk about the best way to contribute your time and talent to our organization.
Are there specific roles or tasks for volunteers?
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Unloading, weighing and recording donations.
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Sorting and repackaging donations.
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Labeling and stocking shelves in the market.
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General cleaning and up-keep of the market.
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Special projects as needed.
Events and Programs
Are there upcoming food drives or fundraisers?
Empty Bowl Fundraiser each spring! We partner with Sandpoint High School Art Department and local restaurants and serve a community lunch. Guests get a warm meal and a unique handmade bowl to take home, all while supporting the mission!
How can I host a fundraiser or food drive for the food bank?
Hosting a food drive is a great way to lend support! Our needs can change seasonally, so give us a call for the most updated information.
Do you have partnership programs with local schools, businesses, or other organizations?
Community Resource Envision Center
Coats for Kids
Food for our Children
Hoot Owl Cafe
Agape Cafe
Presbyterian Church
Angels over Sandpoint
Bonner Homeless Transitions
Panhandle Special Needs
Sandpoint High School LIfe Skills
Lake Pend Oreille High School
Kaniksu Health
Bonner Partners in Care
EasterSeals
Methodist Church
Better Together Animal Alliance
Cedar Hills Church
Gardens for Health Collaborative
Major In-Kind Contributors
Safeway
Walmart
Super One
Yokes
Winter Ridge
Litehouse Speciality Foods
Episcopal Church
About the Clients
How many individuals and families do you serve on average?
In 2024, we have been averaging approximately 3,000 visits a month.
What are the demographics of the people you serve?
