Town Pump raising money for food banks

With a "10 million in 10 years" theme, the Town Pump Charitable Foundation is seeking to raise more than $2 million for food banks across Montana this year and break the $10 million mark. The campaign has raised more than $8.5 million in nine years, including $1.4 million in matching grants from the foundation.

This year, the foundation will match up to $400,000 in contributions to Montana food banks made through Nov. 30, which is $50,000 more than last year. Locally, the foundation will match up to $7,500 on behalf of the Columbia Falls Food Bank, $2,500 more than last year. All funds raised in Columbia Falls will remain in the community.

Food bank representatives statewide report an ever-growing demand to feed the hungry. Nearly 60 food banks will participate in the campaign this year.

Donated money will be used to purchase perishable food items, such as milk, bread, fruit and vegetables. Funds will also help many food bank organizations simply stay open, through payment of rent, utilities and space for storage, refrigeration and freezing.

Donations will be collected at the Columbia Falls Town Pump, Magic Diamond and Lucky Lil's Casinos or can be sent directly to the Columbia Falls Food Pantry, P.O. Box 1081, Columbia Falls MT 59912.