The Interfaith Coalition of Whidbey Island set an exemplary example in January by impressively stocking the shelves of Help House, the food bank that feeds the needy on North Whidbey Island.

With volunteers asking for donations at grocery stores and others donating time and equipment to bring the goods to the food bank, the day’s take totaled 5,600 pounds of badly-needed supplies, plus another $660 in cash that Help House will spend on even more food. Jean Wieman, Help House executive director, couldn’t remember a time when the charity’s shelves have been so well stocked.

The food drive was well timed, replenishing the food bank after the busy holiday season. The demand for food in the community is growing as the national economic crisis filters down. Wieman said the organization delivered 815 more food baskets in 2008 than the year before, which equates to an additional 2,300 people being fed.

With unemployment increasing in Island County and all over the state, and with seniors and others still dealing with the devastation done to their investment funds by the Wall Street meltdown, Help House will need all the help it can get to help feed the people of North Whidbey. The Interfaith Coalition jump-started the 2009 food gathering effort, and set a fine example for others to follow. Anyone who wants to get involved can visit oakharborcrc.org, or call Hap Fakkema, 675-0759.