[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”frequently-asked-questions” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|700|||||||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,1_5,1_5,1_5,1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|||||” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}” text_text_color__hover_enabled=”off|desktop” text_text_color__hover=”#E02B20″]<\/p>\n
Using the Food Pantry<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Volunteering<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n SNAP Assistance<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Money For Meals<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Donations<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”using-the-food-pantry” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||-2px||” custom_padding=”|||2px||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”65%” custom_margin=”0px|auto|-2px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”65%” module_alignment=”center” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”what-is-the-food-pantry” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The WOU Food Pantry is Western Oregon University’s campus resource for food insecurity, and our mission is to end hunger on college campuses. We are a student-run organization that is a part of Abby’s House \u2014 the gender justice and equity center on campus. Our work primarily revolves around running and expanding the campus food pantry, which is a service that proves free access to food for everyone. However, we do also provide other services like assistance with applying for SNAP benefits, and also the Money for Meals program!\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”when-are-you-open” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n You can find our current operating hours here.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We are located in the WOU Welcome Center, formerly known as the Oregon Military Academy Building. Find us in room WEL 165, accessible through the courtyard, right next to the interior entrance to the Mailroom\/Copy Center.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Everyone! Students, alums, staff, faculty, non-students, and even non-residents of the Monmouth-Independence area are all welcome to use our services. There are no income guidelines a customer has to meet to access our resources either!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Just walk in during any of our operating hours. We don’t require any appointments, sign-ups, or ID checks in advance. Once you arrive, a volunteer will greet you, and help you with your shopping experience. The Pantry is set up to model a grocery store, so you can grab a bag and shop for food as you normally would by browsing our shelves, fridges, and freezers. Our service is completely free. The only thing we ask of customers is that they weigh their food, and fill out an anonymous checkout survey during each visit for our record-keeping.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n You can use the Food Pantry as many times as you want. There are no limits on how often you can utilize our services. In fact, if you visited us and forgot to pick up something, you could visit us again that same day!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n There are no limits on the amount of food you can shop for with our services. We only ask that you take what you need, and be considerate of your fellow customers.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This is entirely up to you. One of the reasons we don’t place limits on the amount of food you can shop for is because we believe that you are the best judge of your own need. Some people use the Food Pantry for a quick snack, and other people use it for their weekly groceries. Some people are only shopping for themselves, and other people are providing food for their roommates, neighbors, or families. In short: shop for the amount of food that you are comfortable with.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Food pantries run on donated items so, unlike a grocery store, we have a constantly changing supply of items. That being said, we try to keep a good balance of canned food, packaged items, fresh food and produce, grains, dairy, and frozen meals. The only way to know for sure is to come give us a visit! You might be surprised at the amount of high quality items we have to offer.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n It is more than likely that we will have items that work for your diet. However, when it comes to substitute items (e.g. non-dairy milks and gluten-free flours), we cannot guarantee that we carry these items.\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The majority of our food comes from the Marion Polk Food Share, our regional food bank in Salem. We receive food from them every week, and you can find out more about them on their website.<\/a><\/span> The rest of our food comes from community donations and food drives.\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”volunteering” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”65%” custom_margin=”0px|auto|0px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”65%” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Fill Out This Form to Volunteer<\/a><\/p>\n Fill out the above linked Google Form to show interest in volunteering.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Yes! The Food Pantry is a great place to fulfill service hours for classes, extracurricular programs, or to beef up your resume. The Food Pantry Volunteer Coordinator is always happy to sign your hours sheets. For our weekly volunteers, we also store and keep records of your volunteering hours in addition to sending out hours certificates every term.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Generally speaking, there are two types of volunteering: one-time event volunteering and weekly volunteering. One-time events are when we need volunteers for a day or two for any events or special services that we might be hosting. An example of this is the Food Pantry’s annual Turkey Baskets event in which we provide people with traditional Thanksgiving meals. This type of volunteering is perfect if you want to help out once or twice a term for a few hours. On the other hand, weekly volunteering is for people who want to make a regular commitment to volunteering. These volunteers go to a weekly shift to staff the Food Pantry, and keep it open and operating for customers.\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We prefer Western students or Alum to work in our Food Pantry. Community members can volunteer, but they will need to volunteer at the same time as a student volunteer. Email foodpantry@mail.wou.edu <\/a>for more information.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Weekly volunteers staff the Food Pantry and keep it open for our customers. Their primary responsibilities include: greeting and assisting customers, organizing and restocking food, discarding food that had gone bad, processing and sorting donations, checking the temperatures of food storage areas, and cleaning surfaces for health and safety.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Even one hour per week of your time helps us out so much! Typically, weekly volunteers do between 1 and 4 hours every week. Although the volunteer coordinator is happy to schedule you for more hours if you want them. Your volunteering schedule will always be at the same time every week, so there will be no surprises or sudden changes to your hours.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Our goal is to have everyone start during week one so that there is a smooth transition for our customers each term. However, we completely understand that not everyone has their class or work schedule finalized by then. You should notify the volunteer coordinator if this is the case for you. In general, we don’t add or schedule any new volunteers after Week 3 of a term.\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We ask that you commit to the whole term, but it’s not as intimidating as it sounds! Here’s a testimonial from one of our volunteers:<\/p>\n Volunteering at the Food Pantry has been a very rewarding experience for me to extend my support to the entire Monmouth-Independence community. Something that I really appreciate is that I’m able to volunteer during times that work with my schedule. Other positives of volunteering at the Food Pantry are that I’m able to work on my homework, sit and chat with my fellow volunteers, and the very flexible volunteer schedule that allows me to cancel a shift when needed. I’d highly recommend volutneering for people looking to gain some leadership experience and\/or wanting to get involved with the community.<\/p>\n This volunteer was an RA, so even busy people have found it very easy to fit volunteering into their schedule!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Yes! There is a lot of downtime during Food Pantry shifts, so you should have plenty of time to do so.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n As soon as possible to give the volunteer coordinator enough time to schedule someone to cover your shift. In fact, the volunteer coordinator would love it if you notified them about needing to miss a shift in Week 8 of a term when it’s still Week 1!\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Yes! Everyone means everyone. We only ask that you are courteous of other customers. We need to ensure that all customers are treated equally, and that volunteers don’t have special or early access to food that other customers don’t have access to.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”snap-assistance” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”65%” custom_margin=”0px|auto|0px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”65%” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, is a government program that provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of eligible households.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n To be considered for SNAP individuals and households must be below income guidelines set by the state. If you are attending school half-time you will apply as a student and need to meet additional student criteria to qualify. Here is a helpful breakdown of income guidelines and criteria for college students.<\/a><\/span> Don’t worry this is not as daunting as it seems!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n You can find the online application for Oregon here.<\/a><\/span> A printable PDF copy is available in English<\/a><\/span> or Spanish<\/a><\/span> which can be turned in to a Department of Human Services (DHS) Self-Sufficiency Office. Click here to find your local Self-Sufficiency Office,<\/a><\/span> they can also offer paper applications and answer questions.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The first step is to fill out the application, if you are applying online you will be prompted to make an account, keep track of this information. You will be asked to fill in information about your income, expenses, household, and student specific questions. After the application is submitted, either online or to a Self-Sufficiency Office, and received by DHS the rest of the process must be completed within 30 days. The next step is to complete an interview. If you submit your application in person you may be able to get an interview that day, if not you will receive a call from DHS either to complete the interview right then or to schedule a more convenient time. For your interview you should be prepared to talk about how you are eligible for SNAP as a student, this is the time to advocate for yourself and also ask any questions. Be sure to submit any supplemental information or additional paperwork you are asked to complete within the original 30 day timetable. You will be notified if you have been approved or denied SNAP, if approved you will be able to access your benefits no later than 30 days after the application was submitted. <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Once awarded SNAP, benefits are delivered on a monthly basis to an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) account. These funds can be spent with an Oregon Trail Card that functions the same as a debit card. SNAP benefits can be used at grocery stores and other qualifying establishments to purchase food. Click here for a map of retailers that accept SNAP in your area<\/a><\/span> and click here for a list of what foods SNAP can and cannot buy.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”1px||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The Basic Needs Coordinator can help answer any questions and guide you through the application process. The process can be confusing but we are here to help! Click here to make an appointment with the Basic Needs Coordinator<\/a><\/span> for any questions or concerns about eligibility, the application process, or if you just need help getting started!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”voucher-program” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”65%” custom_margin=”0px|auto|0px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”65%” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Money For Meals, previously known as the Voucher Program, is a service for WOU students experiencing high need or distress who cannot fully meet their needs at the Food Pantry. After a meeting with a Food Pantry staff member, we are able to provide you with a gift card of your choice to Waremart or Campus Dining.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This program is for WOU students only.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n You can use Money For Meals once per term while you are a student at WOU.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Visit Abby\u2019s House in the Werner University Center and ask about Money For Meals.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In Abby’s House the Basic Needs Coordinator will ask you a couple of questions to learn about how we can best assist you. After that, you can select a Waremart or Campus Dining gift card, and then you’re all set.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”donations” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”65%” custom_margin=”0px|auto|0px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”65%” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We always appreciate both! However, food donations are best during the holidays and Winter because that is generally when we need the most food. Donating food is also the most immediate way to help our customers. On the other hand, donating money goes towards more long-term ways of helping us improve our services.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Donations generally go towards office supplies, web services, upgrading our equipment, and other Pantry expenses. We receive enough food from our partner food bank, the Marion Polk Food Share, as well as community donors that we do not need to purchase additional food.\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Your food goes directly to Pantry customers which includes WOU students, WOU staff or faculty, and community members of the Monmouth-Independence area.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n See our Donation page for an up to date list of our most needed items!<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n You can drop off donations during any of our operating hours, which you can find here!<\/a><\/span> However, if you have a large donation (Several boxes, crates, or truck loads) please contact us at foodpantryvolunteers@mail.wou.edu<\/span><\/a> so we can schedule additional volunteers to help process your donation.\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Often times, food lasts longer than its printed expiration date. Our volunteers are trained to inspect food, so please bring your expired items and a volunteer will determine if we can keep it.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n If the packaging is damaged in a way that exposes the food to open air, we cannot accept it. Otherwise, bring your item and a volunteer will determine if we can keep it.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n January and February are generally the times when we have the least amount of food. Any food donations during those times are incredibly helpful to us!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We can accept hygiene products, school supplies, and pet food!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We cannot accept clothes, alcohol, medicine, and home-canned or cooked food.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Write the check for Western Oregon University, and include “WOU Food Pantry” in the Memo section to ensure your donation goes to us.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n You can mail it to us with the following address:<\/p>\n Attn: Abby’s House<\/p>\n 345 Monmouth Ave N,<\/p>\n Monmouth, OR 97361<\/p>\n Abby’s House is the parent organization of the Food Pantry, and will process your donation. If you are donating cash, include a note in the envelope that it is for the Food Pantry.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”2em” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\nUsing the Food Pantry<\/strong><\/h2>\n
What is the Food Pantry?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
When are you open?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Where is the Food Pantry?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Who can use the Food Pantry?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How do I use the Food Pantry?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How often can I use the Food Pantry?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How much food can I shop for?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How much food should<\/em> I shop for?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What kind of food do you have?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Do you have food that accommodates allergies or dietary restrictions?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Where do you get you food?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Volunteering<\/strong><\/h2>\n
How do I volunteer?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Will you sign off on my volunteering hours?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What kinds of volunteering are there?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Who can volunteer?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What do weekly volunteers do?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How often do I need to volunteer?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
When in the term does volunteering start?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Do I need to commit to volunteer for the whole term?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Can I do homework during my shift?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
When should I notify the volunteer coordinator that I need to miss a shift?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Can I still use the Food Pantry if I’m a volunteer?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
SNAP Assistance<\/strong><\/h2>\n
What is SNAP?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Am I eligible for SNAP?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How do I apply for SNAP?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What does the application process look like?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How do I use SNAP?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Have questions or need help?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Money For Meals
<\/strong><\/h2>\nWhat is Money for Meals?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Who can use the Money For Meals?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How often can I use the Money For Meals?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How do I access Money For Meals?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What does the process look like?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Donations<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Is it better to donate food or money?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Where does my money go?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Where does my food go?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What food should I donate?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
When should I drop off food?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What if my food is expired?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What if the packaging is damaged?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What time of year is best to donate?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What other items can you accept?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What items can you not accept?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How should I write the check?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Where do I drop off my cash or check?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Can I donate with a debit or credit card?<\/strong><\/h4>\n